A dedicated team of Peninsula Health doctors and nurses are preparing to embark on a journey to Papua New Guinea as part an eight-day medical expedition led by the No Roads Expeditions Foundation (NRF).
As one of the world’s most underdeveloped nations, Papua New Guinea grapples with some of the world’s worst health statistics. The country’s fragile health system, compounded by extremely poor health and immunisation outcomes, means there are difficulties accessing adequate health services and facilities.
“I was eager to join in on another health expedition in Papua New Guinea as a way of giving to communities that I know are in desperate need,” says Natalie Clarebrough, an ICU nurse at Frankston Hospital, and the main instigator behind the involvement in the expedition.
“After spending a few years attending boarding school in India as a teenager I have seen myself as extremely privileged to have been born in this lucky country. Where I can, I like to at least contribute in some way to making a positive difference to those less fortunate than myself.”
Detailing her involvement in previous expeditions, Natalie describes an eight day itinerary that involves flying via Port Moresby to Tufi and then traveling by small boats to nine remote villages, all while carrying essential supplies and medications.
Whilst in Papua New Guinea, the group, comprising of seven Peninsula Health team members, will collaborate with local health workers to deliver healthcare in small local schools, wind houses, and aid posts, providing general medical care, birthing assistance, wound care, and education on maternal and infant health, infection management, and nutrition.
Departing 26 May, Natalie highlights the desperate need in Papua New Guinea communities, and the stresses the critical importance of the team’s work.
“The local communities and the local health staff are so appreciative of the work that the No Roads Foundation does. We have all seen firsthand the positive difference that the Foundation has made to health outcomes over there,” says Natalie.
“As a team of nurses, including ICU nurses, the primary health collective knowledge of the team is perfect to pass on a wide range of health care knowledge to the locals in Papua New Guinea.”
“The ICU nurses are trained to think critically and to act on their feet, which is definitely an asset when it comes to emergency situations that can arise during the expeditions.”
“Having a midwife in the group is very important also as they can not only assist with difficult birthing but can also pass on their knowledge to the rest of the team and the local health care workers.”
As the team of nurses from the Mornington Peninsula get ready for their trip to Papua New Guinea, their dedication to making a positive impact on healthcare in the region is truly inspiring and a wonderful showcase of the Peninsula Health values.
On Friday 9 February, the team are holding their major fundraiser at the Frankston Arts Centre. This will be a comedy night featuring comedians from the Sydney and Melbourne international comedy festivals. Please go to https://comedyforacause.net/tc-events/nrf/ to purchase your tickets.