Overview
International SOS has been providing best-in-class healthcare for members of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) deployed to Papua New Guinea (PNG) as a part of the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership since 2014.
Problem
PNG is an extremely complex and unstable operating environment. Blackouts occur regularly, and law and order are weak. In support of its mission in PNG, the Australian Federal Police was looking to guarantee AFP personnel dedicated, Australian standard and high-quality medical care while complying with PNG regulations.
Solution
In support of the Australian Federal Police, our western trained clinicians deliver primary health care, diagnostic and imaging services, and health logistics through International SOS’s medical clinics in Port Moresby and Lae. We have dedicated ground ambulances available to deliver 24/7 road-based medical retrieval services which are supported by regular scenario-based practice drills.
We also have the capacity to conduct emergency medical services such as Aero Medical Evacuation, emergency resuscitation and resuscitative surgery. Our partnering relationship with the AFP is strengthened through daily on-the ground communication and monthly clinical governance meetings.
More recently, with COVID-19 as the backdrop, our teams have shown agility and adapted quickly to the challenges of a pandemic environment and evolving quarantine requirements. By implementing a home care model to screen and treat AFP personnel at their place of residence, we reduced the risk of infecting staff and patients within our clinics. This, in addition to screening AFP staff entering and exiting PNG.
Impact
Within three months of contract signature, International SOS could deliver all contracted medical services. This included the establishment of hospital facilities, the recruitment and licensing of 40 medical support personnel and the purchase and acquisition of medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, consumables, blood and fresh frozen plasma. By providing AFP personnel access to International SOS’s clinics, we have been able to guarantee qualified expatriate medical professionals are delivering high-quality primary care and emergency medical assistance in PNG.
Beyond the delivery of primary healthcare and emergency medical services, we are dedicated to capacity building in support of the region. Our clinicians have provided over 7,000 volunteer hours of skills-based health education programs to support the AFP’s capacity building approach in Papua New Guinea. Through our community outreach programmes, we have made a positively contributed to the lives of many Papua New Guineans.
International SOS understands how to successfully perform within this unique region of the world, appreciating the cultural, linguistic, and geographic challenges which face medical providers.