San delivers life-saving care in PNG

Last month, San Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr Ian Nicholson took part in a life-changing paediatric cardiac mission to Papua New Guinea, as part of the hospital’s ongoing partnership with Open Heart International (OHI).

The trip to Port Moresby General Hospital saw seven children aged between five and 14 undergo successful open-heart surgery to treat congenital heart conditions.  

The mission brought together a multidisciplinary team of eight clinicians from across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, who volunteered their time to participate.  

The team worked alongside the local cardiac team, with the focus extending beyond surgery to training, mentoring and knowledge-sharing. The goal is to support a fully independent cardiac surgery program in Papua New Guinea, building capability to ensure the local team can continue delivering this care long after the Australian team have left. 

Dr Ian Nicholson says one of the most memorable aspects of the trip was reconnecting with the Port Moresby team following a pause due to the Covid pandemic. 

“This work has become part of my professional identity and continues to shape my career in meaningful ways,” Dr Nicholson says. 
One patient left a lasting impression, a nine-year-old girl affectionately known as “Tiny”, whose severe heart condition had stunted her growth so much that she looked more like a four-year-old.

“Meeting her before surgery was very emotional but seeing her come through a successful operation was an incredible reminder of why I am so passionate about this work,” Dr Nicholson says. 

Adventist HealthCare CEO Brett Goods also travelled to PNG, meeting with hospital, university leaders and the PNG Secretary for Health to reinforce the San’s commitment to the program and explore future opportunities for collaboration. 

“We’re incredibly proud of the impact these missions have, not only for the patients and families, but for strengthening healthcare systems in our region,” Mr Goods says. 

“We look forward to continuing this work with OHI and our South Pacific neighbours.” 

Since its beginnings in 1973, the San has supported OHI to deliver life-changing care to more than 6,000 patients across 16 countries through volunteer-led outreach programs. Following pandemic disruptions, OHI is now being reinvigorated with a renewed focus on the South Pacific. 

To learn more about Open Heart International or support its work, visit www.ohi.org.au.