Formed in 1996 as an Incorporated Society, Pasifika Medical Association was established by a group of Pacific medical professionals who identified a need for an association which brought together and provided a forum for Pacific medical professionals, including doctors, medical students and other health professionals.

When the early navigators of the Pacific health sector established PMA, it was intended to provide a haven to nurture and grow Pacific health professionals. As the organisation has prospered through the voluntary efforts of its executive committees, members and many sponsors and supporters, it has grown to become a leader in workforce development in the region. The commitment shown then is the same today – in fact, the commitment may indeed be even stronger.