Dr Saia Piukala, the inaugural Pacific islander to assume the role of WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, was welcomed yesterday at the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group office, sharing that he felt he had "returned home" as a PMA Life Member and long-time colleague of the Group. His visit came after delivering a powerful keynote address at the University of Auckland, marking his 168th day in office.

Kam na bane ni Mauri! My name is Hele-Christopher Ikimotu. I was born on the rock of Polynesia, Niue, but also blessed with roots in the islands of Banaba and Kiribati.

In the Pacific, countless families grapple with the devastating reality that life-saving medical treatments are often out of reach. For one young Fijian boy, this was his lived experience. Struggling with Cushing’s Disease, a hormonal condition with devastating implications, his chances of diagnosis and treatment were challenging in the Pacific.

Fetuoleaniva (Aniva) Hunkin, is on a heartfelt mission to improve Pacific health outcomes. As a recipient of the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Knowledge Hub Masters Scholarship, Aniva shares with us the motivations that drive her to pursue a Master of Science, majoring in Psychology.

In a society that often encourages men to uphold stoicism and suppress emotions, this week marks a significant stride towards dismantling these stereotypes with Men's Health Week.

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group is pleased to see the government's investment into health, announced last week as part of Budget 2024. $8.15 billion is to be invested in health over the next four years, including $3.4 billion in hospital and specialty services and $2.12 billion for primary care and public health.

The Pasifika Medical Association's (PMA) 28th annual conference is set to take place in Christchurch, New Zealand, from November 26-27, 2024. This year’s theme, "Vunilagi ni Bula Sautu: Living our best lives", explores a holistic approach to health and well-being across all stages of life, envisioning a horizon where individuals live lives of good health and abundance.

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group's recent deployment of a specialised gynecological oncology team to Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital in Apia, Samoa, was a testament to the value of partnership and supportive networks in the region.

Dr Alan Biribo, a seasoned neurosurgeon who has spent years devoted to championing health outcomes for Fijians, was recognised at the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) 2024 Annual Scientific Congress, where he received the President's Medal in addition to presenting the Rowan Nicks Scholarship Lecture.

In a momentous stride forward for both the field of pain medicine and Pacific communities, Fuimaono Satualafaalagilagi Dr Leinani Aiono-Le-Tagaloa has been appointed as the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Pain Medicine, ANZCA (Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists). With a background steeped in dedication, expertise, and advocacy, Dr Aiono-Le-Tagaloa brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to her new role.

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) is excited to announce the launch of its annual Pacific Health Education Scholarships, designed to assist students and professionals in health-related fields.

The biggest challenge faced by Pacific nations in maintaining consistent public health is the loss of its workforce says Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.) of the Pasifika Medical Association Group, Debbie Sorensen.