Gratitude to the volunteer Gastroenterology team of Dr Digby Cullen (team lead, Gastroenterologist); nurses Jacki Crock, Katy Smith, and Joemar Bermejo; Dr Sherman Picardo (Gastroenterologist); and Stuart Smithers (bio-medical technician) for providing training and medical assistance in Madagascar.
Through some travel chaos, the team still managed terrific outcomes during their two weeks, visiting three cities:
- Established a new endoscopy unit in Mahajanga (north east region), providing equipment and training.
- Completed 152 consultations, 75 surgical procedures (aged 4 to 83 years) and daily post operative care rounds.
- Training for 39 medical personnel and updated endoscopic equipment at three units.
- Repaired and serviced endoscopic equipment.
This assignment was supported by DS Biomedical and a Direct Aid Program grant from the Australian Embassy in Mauritius. ADFA also acknowledges ongoing support for its Madagascar programs from Base Toliara, BlackEarth Minerals, St John of God Subiaco Hospital and Air Mauritius.
