Cardiac specialists from Starship have been visiting Samoa regularly for almost two decades. This deployment was led by experienced Paediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiologist, Dr Clare O’Donnell, carrying out specialist consultations for children with congenital and acquired - including rheumatic - heart disease. 

Whilst in Apia, the visiting team were based at the national hospital, working alongside local paediatricians, Dr Farah Marumatakimanu and Dr Kuinita Jaclyn Margraff-Fatupaito. 

During this latest visit, they assessed children with heart conditions, provided education and shared information on cardiac conditions affecting children in Samoa. They also helped to  promote collegial relationships between clinicians in Samoa and New Zealand to assist with ongoing care and professional development. 

Dr Margraff-Fatupaito, Senior Paediatric Registrar for the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, expresses her thanks to the team for the work that was carried out. 

“We were able to see and scan approximately 50 patients (inpatient and outpatient) in four days. We were also able to pick up a few cases that require referral for cardiac surgery at the earliest convenience. 

“On behalf of the Samoa Ministry of Health Paediatrics team, I extend our gratitude to Dr Clare O'Donnell and Miss Kelly for all their hard work and we look forward to strengthening our relationship in the upcoming years." 

Photo: Dean Purcell