Mentoring fellow medics in PNG

A contingent from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is in Papua New Guinea to carry out a series of annual training activities as part of Exercise Olgeta Warrior.

CAPTION: Australian Army medic Sergeant Kathleen Cole speaks with Papua New Guinea Defence Force Warrant Officer Class 2 Jerry Aini at Murray Barracks Health Centre, Port Moresby. Story Captain Joanne Leca. Photo by Corporal Brandon Grey.

To better understand military and civilian health services provided within PNG, ADF personnel from 4th Health Battalion visited a regimental aid post in Port Moresby.

Medical officer Lieutenant Loren Parsons said the visit was an opportunity for the Australian medics to scope what training and mentorship was required to develop the PNGDF’s skills.

“Meeting the medical staff at the regimental aid post was a great opportunity for us to understand how to tailor our Combat First Aid Course to the PNGDF,” Lieutenant Parsons said.

“We’re here to find ways both the Australian and PNG health systems can help each other.”

Since 2009, ADF mentoring training teams have delivered specialist courses to build shared understanding, leadership, discipline and military capability.

PNGDF Warrant Officer Class 2 Joe Tunu, who manages the regimental aid post, said the clinic was set up for soldiers and their dependants, however, it had evolved to provide free medical services to all community members.

“Our medical staff appreciate the ADF providing specialist training to help more families in need of our services and keep the health standard up,” Warrant Officer Joe Tunu said.

“We appreciate Australia’s commitment to improving the PNG health.

“ADF is part of us.”

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