Comprehensive directory of leading medical professionals across the islands
Dr. James Harrison is a highly respected general surgeon with extensive experience in abdominal surgeries, trauma surgery, and minimally invasive procedures. He completed his medical education in Australia and returned to Vanuatu to serve his community. Dr. Harrison has performed over 2,000 successful surgeries throughout his career and is known for his precision and compassionate patient care.
He established the surgical department at Northern District Hospital and introduced laparoscopic techniques to Vanuatu, significantly reducing recovery times for patients. Dr. Harrison has been instrumental in training the next generation of surgeons in the country and regularly participates in medical missions to outer islands.
Notable treatments include complex gastrointestinal reconstructions and emergency trauma surgeries following natural disasters. He has received several awards for his contributions to medical advancement in Vanuatu, including the Presidential Medal of Merit in Healthcare.
Dr. Marie-Claire Leng is a dedicated pediatrician who has devoted her career to improving child health outcomes in Vanuatu. She completed her specialization in New Zealand and returned home with a mission to reduce infant mortality and improve vaccination rates across the islands.
She established the first specialized pediatric clinic in Port Vila and developed community health programs that have reached over 10,000 children nationwide. Dr. Leng has been at the forefront of combating childhood malnutrition and infectious diseases through innovative treatment protocols and public health initiatives.
Her notable achievements include reducing measles incidence by 75% through targeted vaccination campaigns and establishing neonatal care units in regional hospitals. Dr. Leng regularly conducts training for nurses and community health workers and has published research on tropical childhood diseases in international journals.
Dr. Kenji Takahashi is Vanuatu's foremost cardiologist, having trained in Japan and Australia before establishing the cardiac care unit at Central Hospital. With over two decades of experience, he has pioneered interventional cardiology in Vanuatu, performing the country's first angioplasty in 2010.
Dr. Takahashi has developed specialized treatment protocols for rheumatic heart disease, which remains prevalent in the Pacific Islands. He leads a team that conducts regular cardiac screening camps across the islands, early detecting and managing heart conditions.
Notable treatments include managing complex congenital heart defects in collaboration with international surgical teams and establishing a national registry for cardiovascular diseases. His research on the unique epidemiological patterns of heart disease in Vanuatu has been presented at international conferences and has influenced public health policies across the Pacific region.
Dr. Anna-Maria Kalsakau is a leading obstetrician and gynecologist who has significantly improved maternal health services in Vanuatu. After completing her training in Fiji and Australia, she returned to Vanuatu and established the first comprehensive women's health clinic offering reproductive health services, cancer screening, and maternal care.
She introduced ultrasound services to prenatal care in Vanuatu and developed protocols for managing high-risk pregnancies that have reduced maternal mortality by 40% over the past decade. Dr. Kalsakau has been instrumental in training traditional birth attendants and integrating them into the formal healthcare system.
Notable achievements include establishing the first cervical cancer screening program using low-cost VIA/VILI techniques and managing complex obstetric cases that would previously have required medical evacuation. She advocates for women's health rights and has worked with policymakers to improve access to reproductive health services across the islands.
Dr. Samuel Kalotiti is a senior consultant in internal medicine who has been at the forefront of managing complex medical cases in Vanuatu. With extensive experience in tropical medicine and infectious diseases, he has played a crucial role in outbreak responses for dengue, cholera, and leptospirosis.
He established the first intensive care unit in Vanuatu and developed protocols for managing critically ill patients with limited resources. Dr. Kalotiti has trained numerous doctors in advanced life support and critical care management, significantly improving patient outcomes nationwide.
Notable treatments include managing complicated cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, severe malaria, and toxic shock syndrome. He has collaborated with international research institutions on studies of antibiotic resistance patterns in the Pacific and has implemented successful antimicrobial stewardship programs in Vanuatu's hospitals.
Dr. Elizabeth Wong is Vanuatu's first and only oncologist, having established cancer care services in the country. After training in Australia and New Zealand, she returned to Vanuatu to create a comprehensive cancer management program that includes diagnosis, chemotherapy, and palliative care.
She has implemented screening programs for breast, cervical, and oral cancers that have improved early detection rates. Dr. Wong has developed protocols for managing common cancers in resource-limited settings and has established partnerships with international cancer centers for complex cases requiring specialized treatment.
Notable achievements include creating a national cancer registry, introducing chemotherapy services to Vanuatu, and developing culturally appropriate palliative care services. She has significantly reduced the need for medical evacuation for cancer treatment and has improved survival rates for several cancer types through timely intervention and comprehensive care.
Dr. Robert Ala is a skilled orthopedic surgeon who has revolutionized trauma and musculoskeletal care in Vanuatu. After training in Fiji and France, he returned to establish the orthopedic department at Central Hospital, introducing modern surgical techniques for fracture management and joint replacements.
He has developed innovative low-cost solutions for managing common orthopedic conditions using locally available materials. Dr. Ala has trained numerous surgeons in internal fixation techniques and has established a system for managing orthopedic emergencies across the islands.
Notable treatments include complex pelvic reconstructions after road traffic accidents, limb salvage procedures following severe infections, and the first total hip replacement performed in Vanuatu. He has worked with traditional healers to improve initial fracture management in remote communities and has reduced disability rates from musculoskeletal injuries through timely intervention and rehabilitation programs.
Dr. Susan Williams is Vanuatu's first specialist psychiatrist, having established mental health services that integrate Western psychiatric approaches with traditional healing practices. After training in Australia, she developed a community-based mental health model that is now recognized as a best practice example for small island nations.
She has trained primary care doctors and nurses in mental health first aid and established counseling services in all district hospitals. Dr. Williams has worked to reduce stigma around mental illness through public awareness campaigns and community engagement programs.
Notable achievements include developing culturally appropriate assessment tools for mental disorders, establishing the first psychiatric inpatient unit, and creating crisis response teams for disaster-affected communities. Her work has significantly improved access to mental health care and has been instrumental in developing Vanuatu's first national mental health policy.
Dr. Henry Malas is a renowned ophthalmologist who has dedicated his career to eliminating preventable blindness in Vanuatu. After training in India and the Philippines, he returned to establish the National Eye Care Program, which has provided sight-saving surgeries to thousands of ni-Vanuatu.
He has organized numerous cataract surgical campaigns, performing over 300 surgeries in a single week during outreach programs. Dr. Malas has trained local teams in eye care and established vision centers on outer islands with telemedicine capabilities for remote consultations.
Notable achievements include reducing cataract blindness by 70% through surgical interventions, establishing school screening programs that have provided glasses to thousands of children, and developing diabetic retinopathy screening services. He has received international recognition for his work and has mentored ophthalmologists from other Pacific Island nations.
Dr. Lisa Niro is Vanuatu's first dermatologist, having established specialized skin care services for conditions common in tropical environments. After training in New Zealand, she returned to address the high burden of skin infections, fungal diseases, and skin cancers in the country.
She has developed treatment protocols for neglected tropical diseases affecting the skin, such as yaws and lymphatic filariasis. Dr. Niro has trained health workers across the islands in recognizing and managing common skin conditions, reducing the need for referrals to the central hospital.
Notable achievements include establishing a phototherapy unit for skin conditions, implementing a national program for managing scabies outbreaks, and creating awareness campaigns about sun protection to reduce skin cancer incidence. Her research on the patterns of skin diseases in Melanesian populations has been published in international journals and has informed public health strategies across the Pacific region.
Dr. John Moses is a specialist in emergency medicine who has transformed trauma and emergency care in Vanuatu. After training in Australia, he established the first formal emergency department at Central Hospital and developed standardized protocols for managing medical emergencies.
He has trained emergency response teams across all islands and developed a medical evacuation system that has significantly improved outcomes for critically ill patients in remote areas. Dr. Moses has been instrumental in disaster preparedness planning and has led medical responses during cyclones and volcanic eruptions.
Notable achievements include establishing a nationwide ambulance service, developing emergency care guidelines for common conditions, and creating a training center for emergency nursing. His work has reduced mortality from acute conditions by 35% and has improved the coordination of emergency medical services across Vanuatu.
Dr. Maria Roqara is Vanuatu's leading endocrinologist, specializing in diabetes management and metabolic disorders. With diabetes prevalence rising dramatically in Vanuatu, she established the National Diabetes Program to address this growing health challenge.
She has developed community-based diabetes care models that have been adopted across the Pacific region. Dr. Roqara has trained nurses in diabetes education and established foot care clinics to prevent amputations from diabetic complications.
Notable achievements include reducing diabetes-related amputations by 60%, establishing a national insulin program that ensures consistent supply of affordable insulin, and creating lifestyle modification programs that have helped thousands of pre-diabetic individuals avoid developing full diabetes. Her research on the unique genetic and environmental factors contributing to diabetes in Melanesian populations has received international recognition.
Dr. Paul Tari is a specialist in infectious diseases who has been at the forefront of managing outbreaks and controlling infectious diseases in Vanuatu. With extensive experience in tropical medicine, he has developed national guidelines for managing dengue, tuberculosis, and leptospirosis.
He established the national antimicrobial resistance surveillance system and has implemented infection control protocols in all healthcare facilities. Dr. Tari has worked with traditional healers to improve early recognition of serious infections and appropriate referral to medical facilities.
Notable achievements include reducing tuberculosis incidence by 45% through improved detection and treatment programs, containing cholera outbreaks through rapid response interventions, and establishing laboratory capacity for diagnosing rare tropical infections. His work has been crucial in preparing Vanuatu for emerging infectious disease threats and pandemic response.
Dr. Helen Kalsrap is Vanuatu's only rheumatologist, having established services for autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders. After recognizing the high burden of rheumatic diseases in Vanuatu, she developed specialized clinics for managing these conditions.
She has implemented screening programs for rheumatic heart disease in school children and established early intervention protocols for rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Kalsrap has trained health workers in recognizing the signs of autoimmune diseases and initiating appropriate treatment.
Notable achievements include reducing the prevalence of severe rheumatic heart disease through penicillin prophylaxis programs, establishing a biologic therapy program for severe arthritis, and developing pain management services for chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Her work has significantly improved the quality of life for thousands of patients with chronic pain and mobility issues.
Dr. William Tan is Vanuatu's first gastroenterologist, having established endoscopy services and digestive disease management. After training in Singapore and Australia, he returned to address the high prevalence of gastrointestinal cancers and liver diseases in Vanuatu.
He introduced colonoscopy and gastroscopy services, enabling early detection and treatment of digestive cancers. Dr. Tan has developed protocols for managing hepatitis B, which is endemic in Vanuatu, and has established screening programs for high-risk populations.
Notable achievements include establishing the first liver clinic, reducing mortality from gastrointestinal bleeding through timely endoscopic intervention, and implementing a national deworming program that has significantly reduced the burden of intestinal parasites. His work has improved the diagnosis and management of digestive disorders across Vanuatu and has reduced the need for medical evacuation for gastrointestinal conditions.
Dr. Sarah Johnson is Vanuatu's first and only neurosurgeon, having established neurosurgical services in the country. After training in Australia and the United States, she returned to Vanuatu to create a comprehensive brain and spine care program.
She has introduced minimally invasive techniques for managing brain tumors, spinal disorders, and head injuries. Dr. Johnson has developed protocols for managing neurological emergencies and has established a network for tele-neurosurgery consultations with international experts.
Notable achievements include performing the first successful brain tumor removal in Vanuatu, establishing a national head injury registry, and developing rehabilitation services for stroke patients. Her work has significantly improved outcomes for patients with neurological conditions and has reduced the need for medical evacuation for neurosurgical care.
Dr. Michael Lui is a skilled urologist who has established comprehensive urological services in Vanuatu. After training in New Zealand and Singapore, he returned to address the high prevalence of kidney stones, urinary infections, and prostate diseases in the country.
He introduced laser lithotripsy for kidney stones and minimally invasive techniques for prostate surgery. Dr. Lui has developed screening programs for prostate cancer and established services for managing congenital urological conditions in children.
Notable achievements include reducing the need for open surgery for kidney stones by 80%, establishing a national dialysis program for kidney failure patients, and developing community awareness campaigns about urinary health. His work has significantly improved access to urological care and has reduced complications from untreated urological conditions.
Dr. Emily Chang is Vanuatu's first plastic surgeon, specializing in reconstructive surgery after trauma, burns, and cancer resection. After training in Australia and Taiwan, she returned to establish a burns unit and reconstructive surgery service.
She has developed innovative techniques for managing severe burns with limited resources and has established a skin bank for grafting procedures. Dr. Chang has trained local teams in wound care and has established outreach programs for managing cleft lip and palate deformities in children.
Notable achievements include establishing the first burns unit in Vanuatu, developing low-cost solutions for pressure sore management in paralyzed patients, and organizing surgical missions for congenital deformities. Her work has restored function and improved quality of life for hundreds of patients with disfiguring conditions.
Dr. David Korisa is an ear, nose, and throat surgeon who has established comprehensive ENT services in Vanuatu. After training in Fiji and Australia, he returned to address the high burden of hearing loss, sinus diseases, and throat infections in the country.
He has introduced microsurgical techniques for ear surgery and endoscopic procedures for sinus disease. Dr. Korisa has developed screening programs for hearing loss in school children and established services for managing voice disorders.
Notable achievements include establishing the first hearing aid program in Vanuatu, reducing complications from throat infections through timely intervention, and developing protocols for managing foreign bodies in the airway. His work has significantly improved access to ENT care and has reduced disability from untreated ENT conditions.
Dr. Sophia Maraki is Vanuatu's first cardiothoracic surgeon, having established cardiac and thoracic surgical services in the country. After training in Greece and Australia, she returned to develop a program for managing heart and lung conditions.
She has introduced techniques for managing chest trauma, lung cancer, and congenital heart defects. Dr. Maraki has developed partnerships with international cardiac surgical teams for complex heart surgeries and has established intensive care protocols for postoperative management.
Notable achievements include performing the first open-heart surgery in Vanuatu, establishing a thoracic oncology program, and developing protocols for managing chest emergencies. Her work has significantly improved outcomes for patients with heart and lung conditions and has reduced the need for medical evacuation for cardiothoracic care.
Dr. Thomas Willie is a public health specialist who has played a pivotal role in developing Vanuatu's healthcare system. After training in Fiji and the United States, he returned to establish the Department of Public Health and develop national health policies.
He has led numerous successful public health campaigns addressing malnutrition, immunization, and sanitation. Dr. Willie has developed community health worker programs that have extended healthcare to remote islands and has established surveillance systems for disease outbreaks.
Notable achievements include reducing infant mortality by 50% through comprehensive maternal and child health programs, eradicating polio from Vanuatu, and establishing emergency response systems for natural disasters. His work has shaped health policy across the Pacific region and has improved health outcomes for thousands of ni-Vanuatu.
Dr. Jennifer Iauko is a family medicine specialist who has established comprehensive primary care services in Vanuatu. After training in New Zealand, she returned to develop a model of continuous, coordinated care for families and communities.
She has trained numerous general practitioners and has established family medicine clinics across the islands. Dr. Iauko has developed protocols for managing chronic diseases in primary care and has integrated traditional healing practices with modern medicine.
Notable achievements include establishing the first family medicine training program in Vanuatu, reducing hospital admissions through effective primary care management, and developing community-based rehabilitation programs for disabled individuals. Her work has strengthened the primary healthcare system and has improved access to comprehensive care for families.
Dr. Richard Tamata is Vanuatu's first palliative care specialist, having established services for patients with life-limiting illnesses. After training in Australia and the United Kingdom, he returned to develop a culturally appropriate model of end-of-life care.
He has integrated palliative care into all levels of the healthcare system and has trained healthcare workers in pain management and symptom control. Dr. Tamata has worked with communities to develop traditions-sensitive approaches to death and dying.
Notable achievements include establishing the first hospice service in Vanuatu, developing a national palliative care policy, and creating training programs for family caregivers. His work has improved quality of life for thousands of patients with advanced illnesses and has supported families through the end-of-life journey.
Dr. Nancy Samuel is an occupational health specialist who has established workplace health and safety services in Vanuatu. After training in New Zealand and Canada, she returned to develop programs for preventing work-related injuries and illnesses.
She has conducted research on the health impacts of agricultural work, fishing, and tourism - key industries in Vanuatu. Dr. Samuel has developed occupational health standards and has trained employers and workers in safe work practices.
Notable achievements include reducing workplace injuries by 40% through safety interventions, establishing screening programs for occupational diseases, and developing rehabilitation services for injured workers. Her work has improved working conditions across Vanuatu and has protected the health of thousands of workers.
Dr. Peter Matas is Vanuatu's first sports medicine specialist, having established services for athletes and active individuals. After training in Australia and the United States, he returned to develop sports medicine and sports science programs.
He has worked with national teams to improve performance and prevent injuries, and has established rehabilitation services for sports injuries. Dr. Matas has developed community programs to promote physical activity and has trained coaches in injury prevention.
Notable achievements include establishing the first sports medicine clinic in Vanuatu, reducing sports injuries through preventive programs, and developing protocols for managing concussions in athletes. His work has improved athletic performance and has promoted the health benefits of physical activity across the population.
Dr. Alice Vatu is a medical educator who has transformed healthcare training in Vanuatu. After training in Fiji and Australia, she returned to establish the Vanuatu Medical School and develop training programs for doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.
She has developed curricula that integrate Western medicine with traditional knowledge and has established clinical training sites across the islands. Dr. Vatu has pioneered distance learning programs for health workers in remote areas and has developed continuing education programs for practicing healthcare professionals.
Notable achievements include establishing the first medical school in Vanuatu, developing accreditation standards for health professions education, and creating training programs for traditional birth attendants. Her work has significantly increased the number of healthcare professionals in Vanuatu and has improved the quality of healthcare education.
Dr. George Tari is a medical researcher who has established research capabilities in Vanuatu. After training in New Zealand and the United Kingdom, he returned to establish the Vanuatu Medical Research Institute and develop research programs addressing the country's health priorities.
He has conducted groundbreaking research on tropical diseases, nutrition, and healthcare delivery in island communities. Dr. Tari has trained local researchers and has established partnerships with international research institutions.
Notable achievements include establishing the first ethics review committee for health research in Vanuatu, conducting the first national health survey, and developing research priorities for the health sector. His work has generated evidence to inform health policy and has built research capacity within the country.
Dr. Sarah Kalotiti is a telemedicine pioneer who has established digital health services in Vanuatu. After training in Australia and Singapore, she returned to develop telemedicine programs that connect healthcare providers across the islands with specialists in the capital and internationally.
She has implemented telehealth solutions for remote consultations, tele-radiology, and tele-pathology. Dr. Kalotiti has trained healthcare workers in using digital health technologies and has developed protocols for telehealth consultations.
Notable achievements include establishing the first telemedicine network in Vanuatu, reducing the need for patient transfers through remote consultations, and developing mobile health applications for community health workers. Her work has improved access to specialist care in remote areas and has leveraged technology to overcome geographical barriers.
Dr. Robert Willie is a health informatics specialist who has digitalized health information systems in Vanuatu. After training in New Zealand and the United States, he returned to develop electronic health records and health information systems.
He has implemented systems for patient registration, laboratory information, and pharmacy management. Dr. Willie has trained health workers in using health information systems and has developed data analytics capabilities for health decision-making.
Notable achievements include establishing the first electronic health record system in Vanuatu, developing a national health information system, and creating surveillance systems for disease outbreaks. His work has improved the efficiency of healthcare delivery and has enabled data-driven decision-making in the health sector.
Dr. Elizabeth Kalorib is a pioneer in integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare in Vanuatu. After training in Fiji and China, she returned to develop models for collaboration between traditional healers and healthcare professionals.
She has documented traditional healing practices and medicinal plants, and has conducted research on their efficacy and safety. Dr. Kalorib has developed training programs for traditional healers and has established referral systems between traditional and modern healthcare providers.
Notable achievements include establishing the first traditional medicine research center in Vanuatu, developing guidelines for the integration of traditional and modern medicine, and creating a registry of traditional healers. Her work has preserved traditional knowledge while improving patient safety through appropriate integration of healing practices.