Dr Noovao-Hill recently received the Honorary Fellowship from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). This award acknowledges individuals for their dedication and contributions to the advancement of women's healthcare.
Born in Suva and raised in the Cook Islands, Dr Noovao-Hill has deep ties to both Fiji and the Cook Islands, which she considers home. She hails from Lakeba, Lau in Fiji and Mauke, Cook Islands. Her diverse heritage informs her understanding of the cultural sensitivities surrounding women's health in the Pacific. This unique perspective has become a cornerstone of her approach to healthcare, enabling her to connect with women on multiple levels.
Dr Noovao-Hill serves as the Head of Secretariat and Medical Vice President for the Pacific Society for Reproductive Health (PSRH). In this role, she leads initiatives aimed at supporting the professional development of the sexual and reproductive health workforce, including midwives and doctors.
Before transitioning to her current role, she was a Clinical Associate Professor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Fiji National University.
Dr Noovao-Hill's interest in women's health was ignited during her medical training when she witnessed the barriers women face in accessing quality care.
“Obstetrics and gynaecology appealed to me because it provided the opportunity to directly impact maternal and reproductive health outcomes.”
During GAM, Dr Noovao-Hill emphasises the importance of early detection.
“Gynaecological cancers, particularly cervical cancer, can be prevented or treated successfully if detected early through regular screening. I encourage all women to prioritise their health and take advantage of available screening services, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. We must also work to ensure that access to these life-saving services is equitable across the Pacific.”
Her message to women is clear and that is to prioritise your health and make use of available screening services.
In her view, equitable access to these life-saving services across the Pacific is crucial.
“For Pacific women, cultural barriers, stigma, and limited access to healthcare services may contribute to hesitancy,” she says.
“I would encourage women to see screening as a form of self-empowerment, a way to take control of their health. It’s also important that healthcare providers foster a culturally safe environment, where women feel supported and informed throughout the process.”
Dr Noovao-Hill addresses the misconceptions she encounters throughout her experience.
"A common misconception is that gynaecological cancers are only a concern for older women, when in fact, younger women can also be affected, particularly by cervical cancer."
"Another myth is that symptoms such as abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain are 'normal' and should be ignored, however this can lead to delayed diagnosis. So it’s crucial for women to be aware of their bodies and seek medical advice if they notice anything unusual, no matter their age."
Reflecting on her career, Dr Noovao-Hill considers the empowerment of women through quality healthcare to be the most rewarding aspect of her work and witnessing the next generation of obstetrics and gynaecology.
"I was fortunate to have had great mentors, and in turn have been able to mentor and support the next generation of doctors and midwives. This has been incredibly fulfilling."
"It’s truly rewarding to see my medical students come back to pursue careers in obstetrics and gynaecology, inspired by their time in my classes. Watching them develop into confident professionals and eventually step into leadership roles in their own island countries is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing I played a part in their journey fills me with immense humility and gratitude for the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others."
