Emergency physicians in Australia and New Zealand stand in solidarity with their colleagues in PNG, who are facing significant challenges in meeting current demands for emergency healthcare.
ACEM Global Emergency Care Committee Chair Dr Megan Cox said the Australian Government's commitment to provide 8,000 vaccine doses, and efforts to divert a further one million internationally-produced doses to the country, were welcome.
The College also supports the decision to send an Australian Medical Assistance (AUSMAT) team, with specialist emergency medicine capability, to PNG. This will provide an opportunity for Australian and PNG emergency care clinicians to work together to meet current challenges.
"PNG's already fragile health system is stressed beyond capacity," said Dr Cox. "Hospitals and isolation facilities are full and testing capability is low. This is compounded by many health care workers having contracted COVID-19; directly impacting on their health and eroding the already limited workforce.
"While 8000 vaccine doses is a small initial commitment, it will hopefully provide some protection for frontline health workers. Preserving the health and wellbeing of those at highest risk and maintaining essential health services before more vaccinations can be sourced, must be the immediate priority.
"We look forward to learning more about the implementation strategy, and the timelines for vaccination roll-out. The challenge facing PNG is very significant, and Australia should be prepared to offer further support should it be requested, just as it should for our other Pacific neighbours."
ACEM President Dr John Bonning said while welcome vaccination efforts are now underway in Australia and New Zealand, the global COVID-19 threat would remain high, at least until as much of the region and world's population as possible is vaccinated.
"Australia and New Zealand are in fortunate positions with virtually no community transmission of COVID-19 and vaccination programs underway. We acknowledge and welcome commitments to support vaccination efforts in the Pacific, but we should be prepared to respond in a timely manner if the situation changes and additional support is needed.
"While PNG is currently the priority for assistance in the Pacific, there are significant risks for the rest of the Pacific and Timor Leste. There is a danger case numbers will grow, particularly in PNG's neighbouring countries such as Solomon Islands.
"We acknowledge the tireless efforts of PNG emergency care clinicians, and indeed colleagues across the Pacific in caring for both COVID and non-COVID patients. ACEM will continue to provide remote support and technical advice to assist them in their roles."
Background:
ACEM is the peak body for emergency medicine in Australia and New Zealand, responsible for training emergency physicians and advancement of professional standards. www.acem.org.au
