Jennifer Green
AHSS faculty Graham Gumley, Jennifer Green, and Sarah Coll joined Des Soares in Apia, Samoa, from 21–27 September 2024 for a teaching visit at Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, in collaboration with the Pacific Islands Orthopaedic Association (PIOA). PIOA, an Australian-registered not-for-profit, runs a three-year, accredited orthopaedic training program for surgeons across the Pacific.
The team was warmly welcomed and based at a local B&B near the hospital. Twelve trainees from six Pacific nations took part in the program, which included clinical ward rounds, lectures on hand and wrist surgery, and afternoon practical sessions. A lively feature of the week was the “Pacific Breaks,” where participants joined in short traditional dance routines.
A standout element was the region’s first microsurgical training, led by Graham Gumley. Trainees were equipped with microsurgical instruments and practiced vessel repairs on glove and chicken models. Many have since continued using these new skills in their home hospitals.
The team found time to explore Samoa, including snorkeling and a visit to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. The week concluded with a celebration at the Samoan Cultural Village, recognizing the trainees’ achievements.
The experience was rewarding and impactful, strengthening surgical skills and building regional networks. Samoa’s hospitality and culture left a lasting impression, and future participation in the PIOA program is strongly encouraged.
