FAQ's

How long are the trips?
Most missions last for 7-10 days, longer for more distant locations. A typical 7-8 day trip would include four days of work, two days of travel, and one or two days of R&R.

Who funds the trips?
We all pay our own expenses including those for air fare, lodging, food and entertainment. However, VOSH is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and most expenses incurred on a VOSH trip are deductible.

Can staff members or family go?
Yes, staff and lay people can also participate. The clinic days are generally very busy, and there is steady work for all team members.

When do you go on your trips?
We typically go in the winter to take advantage of the good weather in our work locations and the cold weather here!

I'm in solo practice; Is there someone to cover for me while I am gone?
We don't have a firm system in place, but there are sometimes optometrists who are able to fill in.

What equipment do I need to bring along?
All you need is your hand equipment - scopes, lens bars or trial lens sets, and extra batteries. Most of our refractions are done with an autorefractor, using retinoscopy when we can't get a reading with the autorefractor.

I collect glasses in the office. Where should I send them?
Our glasses storage is in the basement of VOSH headquarters, 5200 Douglas Dr., Crystal. Any time your travels bring you to the Twin Cities, you can call 763-537-3213 before you leave to arrange to drop off your glasses during normal office hours. We usually have a booth at the MOA spring convention and neutralized glasses can also be dropped off there.

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