Lala Akera and Jenny Doa, were the second batch of UPNG MBBS 5 students, who joined Balimo Hospital for an incredible six-week period from the 6th April to 26th May, 2023. Their time with the Hospital and associated health facilities was filled with memorable experiences.
Upon their arrival, the Obstetrics and Gynie ward extended a warm and joyous welcome to Lala and Jenny. A delightful welcome party was organized to celebrate their presence and acknowledge the valuable contribution they were about to make. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as the hospital staff and fellow students gathered to greet and support the two exceptional individuals embarking on their transformative journey.
Lala and Jenny wasted no time in immersing themselves in various activities that showcased their commitment to making a difference. They journeyed on a trip to Awaba Sub-health Center in Delta Fly in Western Province with HEO Gabby taking with them some medical supplies and had the opportunity to do a brief ward round seeing three patients at the ward, one with TB of the spine, the other with a bush knife wound and one gynae case.
The journey of Lala and Jenny took an even more remarkable turn when they joined the SDP health patrol team on a one (1) week visit to Kondobol Aidpost in the South Fly District of Western Province. This experience allowed them to venture into rural settings and provide Immunization, Family Planning and counselling, outpatient and attending to severely ill patient in the village and WASH program. Because of SDP patrol monthly to Kondobol, all the children there are up to date with their immunization and all mothers are on family planning especially implant. Big thank you to SDP also to bring such basic health services to such rural areas in Western Province.
As they embraced their role as healthcare advocates, Lala and Jenny also found time to celebrate important occasions within the hospital community. They participated in the International Nurses Day celebrations on May 5th, 2023, honoring the exceptional contributions of our nursing staff and showcasing their gratitude for the nursing profession.
Throughout their stay, Lala and Jenny conducted continuous ward rounds at Balimo Hospital, collaborating with the hospital staffs to provide exceptional care to patients. Their dedication to patient well-being and their eagerness to learn from experienced healthcare providers made a significant impact on the quality of care delivered.
Recognizing the importance of ongoing education and training, Lala and Jenny took the initiative to conduct an in-house refresher training on fluid balance. They gathered all staff members at the conference room, sharing their knowledge and expertise to enhance the skills of our dedicated healthcare team.
The time for farewells finally arrived, and Lala and Jenny bid an emotional farewell to the compound of staff residence. They expressed their deep gratitude to the staff members who had supported and mentored them throughout their journey, leaving behind a legacy of appreciation and camaraderie.
Lastly, Lala and Jenny bid farewell to the staff of Balimo Hospital, an event filled with both joy and sadness. The atmosphere was filled with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for their exceptional contributions, as everyone celebrated the lasting impact they had made during their time at Balimo.
The Hospital and Health Service management extends its deepest gratitude to Lala Akera and Jenny Doa for their incredible service and congratulate them on their inspiring journey at Balimo Hospital. Also an extension of deepest gratitude to PNGSDP for travel arrangements for the students, Dr. Gabriel Yohang and the UPNG School of Medicine for commencing the program of rural block visits to Balimo, Western Provincial Health Authority and Delta Fly District Health Services for supporting with necessary drugs and medical supplies, NDoH, ECPNG and CHS PNG. Their presence has left an enduring legacy of compassion, excellence, and hope that will continue to guide our endeavors in providing quality healthcare to our community.