Dr Ah Kuoi-Lauano successfully completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Otolaryngology through the Fiji National University in 2025, marking a significant step forward for ENT service delivery in Samoa, where access to specialist care remains limited. Dr Ah Kuoi-Lauano is Samoa’s first female ENT surgeon, a feat she is proud of, breaking new ground in a specialty traditionally dominated by men.

PMA’s support formed part of a longer-term investment in specialist training, aimed at building sustainable healthcare capacity in the Pacific.

“PMA’s sustained investment in my professional development has been instrumental in advancing my clinical skills and expertise in ENT, with the overarching aim of strengthening and sustaining ENT services in Samoa.”

ENT remains a critical area of need in Samoa. Currently, only two practising ENT doctors serve a population of approximately 200,000 people, placing significant demand on existing services.

“ENT remains a critical area of need within the country, where Dr Sione Pifeleti and I are currently the only practicing ENT doctors serving a population of approximately 200,000 people.

“I am grateful to be one of the pioneers of this postgraduate program, which represents a significant step toward developing ENT surgeons within the Pacific region.”

The Otolaryngology programme at Fiji National University provided clinically rigorous, hands-on training, supported by visiting ENT surgeons from New Zealand and Australia.

Dr Ah Kuoi-Lauano says the training environment reflected the realities of Pacific healthcare systems, enhancing her ability to manage complex cases within resource-limited settings.

Beyond patient care, Dr Ah Kuoi-Lauano aims to use her training to support workforce development in Samoa, sharing knowledge and skills with junior doctors and nursing colleagues to help strengthen ENT services nationally.

“The knowledge and skills attained through this postgraduate training will be applied directly to enhancing ENT service delivery in Samoa.”

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.