Recently, several PACMAT members convened for a two-day workshop focused on the new scope and capabilities required to meet the minimum standards for this classification. The second day featured a hands-on ground simulation, with presentations on effectively handling emergency equipment and tools.  

Since its inception in 2009, PACMAT has been dedicated to providing medical, mental and psychosocial support to address urgent needs during emergencies and disease outbreaks in New Zealand and the Pacific region.  

The team primarily focuses on deploying Pacific healthcare clinicians and mental health professionals to deliver vital support. PACMAT is fully equipped and ready to respond to assistance requests within New Zealand and across Pacific countries, including the Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu.  

Achieving this verification will formalise PACMAT as an Emergency Medical Team recognised by the WHO, setting a global benchmark for excellence. This acknowledgment will reinforce PACMAT's capacity to lead the activation and coordination of rapid response efforts in the immediate aftermath of disasters, outbreaks, and other emergencies.  

Dr Kalo Lalahi-Jermyn, Clinical Director for PACMAT, articulates the driving motivation behind the team's pursuit of Type 1 Mobile Emergency Medical Team status.   

"Our primary aim has always been to meet the needs of our communities during emergencies and crises. Our efforts to achieve WHO verification exemplifies our commitment to our communities. It is a demonstration of our drive to continually seek opportunities for improvement to enhance the services we provide to the communities we support."  

PACMAT and other regional initiatives will be central topics at the Global Health Symposium, scheduled for Monday 25th November 2024, at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre in Christchurch. This Symposium will act as a platform for sharing knowledge and exchanging insights on global health challenges and innovations. It will also serve as one of the pre-conference workshops leading up to the annual Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Conference.