New Zealand Scholarship Paves the Way for Papua New Guinea's Stroke Care Revolution
Debbie Meko, a trailblazer in the health sector of Papua New Guinea, is on a mission to reshape how her country addresses stroke disease, thanks in part to the transformative Manaaki scholarship from New Zealand. A two-time recipient of this prestigious award, Meko has gained invaluable education and insights that she is now harnessing to foster change in health care within her community.
Based at Port Moresby General Hospital (PomGen) as a senior physiotherapist, Meko is keenly focused on conducting a groundbreaking stroke surveillance study. Her vision is clear: to explore how stroke can be understood as a lifestyle disease across various demographics in Papua New Guinea. “During my time at Otago University, which I attended in 2019 to earn my Master’s in Physiotherapy, I recognized the urgent need for enhanced stroke services back home. That realization drove me to apply for a PhD in Health Science,” Meko shared.
Upon returning to PNG, Meko didn’t just sit on her newfound knowledge; she sprang into action. She spearheaded initiatives at PomGen and gathered a dedicated team of health professionals because tackling stroke requires a multidisciplinary approach. In 2023, they formed a specialized stroke unit that encompasses doctors, nurses, and even dietitians who provide tailored nutritional advice to support patients’ recovery journeys.
Meko’s project reflects a promising commitment to improving health services. “Last year we established our service, and this year, we are emphasizing specialized interventions,” she remarked. To drive this change further, she is also working on compelling research proposals that will generate robust, evidence-based data. This data is critical for attracting government funding and establishing a national facility dedicated to stroke treatments.
Her drive does not stop there. Meko is determined to illuminate the unique stroke risk factors among Papua New Guinea’s diverse ethnic groups. “Understanding these variables is vital for our future planning and intervention strategies,” Meko emphasized, as she prepares to present her findings to the government.
The impact of the Manaaki scholarship cannot be overstated for Meko. “I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. The Auckland University of Technology believed in my potential, even when I didn’t have a publication to my name. Their support has enabled me to contribute positively to my country,” she said.
Meko’s journey exemplifies how international educational programs can empower local professionals to effect meaningful change. As she continues on this path, she embodies the spirit of innovation and determination that is essential for advancing health care in Papua New Guinea. With the backing of her hospital and her resolute commitment to evidence-based practice, the future of stroke care in the country looks brighter than ever.
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Country Tags: #PapuaNewGuinea #NewZealand
Category Tags: #HealthNews #Lifestyle #WorldNews
