With support through the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS), the attachment provided Junior Medical Registrar in Internal Medicine, Dr Terina Bangalini, and Registered Nurse, Rebecca Naomi Daniel, with the opportunity to observe and learn from a multidisciplinary oncology team, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and haematologists.

This marks the second country to participate in the same NZMTS attachment, with a team from Fiji’s oncology service having also completed a placement at Rotorua Hospital last year.

Dr Bangalini described the placement as “an amazing experience,” highlighting the coordinated approach to cancer care delivered in Rotorua.

“Patients are supported from the day of diagnosis through to treatment and follow-up, whether in clinic or through home visits. It’s not just about treating the disease, but caring for the whole person.”

During the placement, the pair sat in on clinics, attended outreach visits to Taupō Hospital, and observed how patients receiving chemotherapy are closely monitored for side effects. They also gained insight into advance care planning and the wraparound support available at a community level.

Dr Bangalini said the experience was an eye-opener in terms of both clinical practice and patient care.

“I’ve learnt the importance of safety when administering chemotherapy, as well as the technical skills required such as inserting PICC lines and Port-a-Caths. These are essential for delivering ongoing treatment,” she said.

For Vanuatu, where oncology services are still developing, the learnings from this placement could have a significant impact. Dr Bangalini identified key opportunities including establishing dedicated chemotherapy clinics, strengthening safety protocols for handling cytotoxic drugs, and improving pain management for palliative care patients.

“Oncology is not yet well established in our country. Many patients present at late stages, where treatment options are limited. But I’ve seen that with early detection and the right treatment pathways, some cancers are curable, and many patients can still have a good quality of life.”

PMA is proud to be supporting such placements, reflecting the importance of regional partnerships in building a stronger Pacific health workforce. By investing in training and knowledge exchange, initiatives like this support countries such as Vanuatu to grow in-country capacity and improve access to care for their communities.

Supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated by the Pasifika Medical Association Group, the NZMTS remains dedicated to building resilient health systems and strengthening specialist capability across the Pacific.