A dedicated group of healthcare professionals from Hawke’s Bay Hospital recently concluded a mission to Samoa, where they provided crucial training for neonatal and paediatric staff and delivered essential children’s clothing donations.
Bridging the Training Gap
The mission was led by Dr. Oliver Grupp, a paediatrician at Hawke’s Bay Hospital. Dr. Grupp identified the need for improved newborn life support training during a previous three-month assignment in Samoa in 2019. Recognising the logistical challenges faced by Samoan medical staff, who typically must travel to New Zealand or Australia for such training, he sought to bring the education directly to them.
Dr. Grupp, along with three nurses from Te Whatu Ora Hawke’s Bay and another paediatrician, organised the trip. They secured funding from the Neonatal Nurses Association and the Oliver Smales Trust. The team included Dr. Grupp, Dr. Sarah Currie, neonatal nurses Dianne O’Connor and Nina Lomas, and assistant clinical nurse manager in paediatrics, Patrice Shanks.
Eye-Opening Experience
Patrice Shanks described the experience as both enlightening and humbling. Upon arrival, she noted the significant disparity in resources between the two countries. Unlike New Zealand, where medical supplies are readily available, Samoan families must provide their own linens, food, and purchase any prescribed medications.
“The neonatal team in Samoa makes do with what they have, creating equipment from available materials,” Shanks explained. “This trip gave me a profound appreciation of their resourcefulness and the critical need for support.”
Intensive Training Sessions
The team conducted a comprehensive newborn life support course for 35 participants from various departments, including the emergency department, neonatal unit, and children’s ward. The training was met with enthusiasm, as participants arrived early and stayed late to absorb as much knowledge as possible.
The Kiwi team left behind the training tools used during the sessions, which were received with deep gratitude. Additionally, they delivered bags of baby clothing and bedding donated by Pregnancy Help Central Hawke’s Bay. These items were warmly welcomed by the local parents, further highlighting the trip's positive impact.
Ongoing Commitment
The Hawke’s Bay team is committed to returning to Samoa, with plans to improve and expand their efforts. While the exact date for their next visit is not set, they hope to return within the next two years. In the meantime, Dr. Grupp maintains regular contact with his Samoan colleagues, offering continued support and updates.
Community Support and Impact
Donna Te Amo from CHB Pregnancy Help expressed pride in their contribution, emphasising their mission to provide free baby clothing and equipment to families in need. The organisation's donation played a significant role in supporting the Samoan community.
The initiative by the Hawke’s Bay medical team highlights a compassionate and proactive approach to international healthcare. Their efforts not only provided essential training and resources but also fostered a deeper cultural understanding and strengthened the bond between the two communities.
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