Through the Vanuatu Australia Health Partnership (VAHP), Interplast collaborated with the Vanuatu Ministry of Health to strengthen local capacity in plastic and reconstructive surgery and anaesthesia.
Incredible outcomes
- 20 consultations
- 13 surgeries performed
Many of the patients had travelled around 15 hours by ferry from Tanna Island to access specialist care. Interplast volunteers reported that patient selection was well coordinated, helping ensure those with the greatest need received treatment.
Our CEO Misha Coleman supported the team, re-establishing relations with many ni-Vans including senior officials at the Ministry of Health, Port Vila Central Hospital and with Rotary Port Vila.
“This program represents a holistic patient-centred approach, that also delivers training and skills development through clinical nurse education, surgical and anaesthetic mentoring, clinical podiatry training and practical support to allied health professionals in prosthetics and orthotics” Misha said.
Dr Phil Temakon and Dr Robert Grace in theatre
But thanks to you, the impact extended far beyond surgery.
A key achievement was the training of Dr Phil Temakon, a ni-Vanuatu anaesthetist currently completing a Master’s degree in Anaesthesia at Fiji National University with clinical support from Interplast volunteer anaesthetist Dr Robert Grace and made possible by an Interplast donor.
Under Dr Grace’s mentorship, Dr Temakon gained valuable practical experience and strengthened his confidence, particularly in managing paediatric patients. This hands-on learning will complement his studies and help him continue to grow as a specialist anaesthetist for Vanuatu.
“I’m mainly assisting Dr Rob with inducing cases for cleft lips and cleft palates. Most of the cases we’ve been doing until now have been me so far. It’s a good experience. It’s good learning.” Dr Temakon reflecting on his experience working alongside Interplast volunteers.
There is still more work to do, but thanks to generous supporters like you, Vanuatu is making meaningful progress in strengthening reconstructive surgery services, reducing surgical backlogs and improving care for patients who need it most.
Jana, aged 10, being able to blow bubbles for the first time, after her cleft palete surgery
Acknowledgements
The success of this program was made possible through the Vanuatu Australia Health Partnership (VAHP).
Thank you to our in-country partners, Dr Semesa Matanaicake (Fiji) and Dr Phil Temakon (Vanuatu) for your ongoing dedication to building local healthcare capacity with Interplast.
We also thank our incredible volunteers Dr Kirstie MacGill, Dr Robert Grace, Kim Harris and Lisa O’Connor for their hard work and commitment to quality, equitable health care.
