Medical professionals have a critical role to play in dealing with diseases brought about by climate change said Samoa Medical Association Patron and Chairman of the National Council of Churches (N.C.C.), retired Reverend Aisoli Iuli.

He highlighted this in his keynote address at the S.M.A.'s 77th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference on Thursday.

This year’s conference is themed "Infectious Diseases Related to Climate Change – Neglected Tropical Diseases," spotlighting the pressing intersection of global environmental challenges and public health.

Taule'ale'ausumai Dr. Titi Lamese, the outgoing President of S.M.A. reflected on the association's achievements and challenges over the past year. 

“Established in 1948, our association has steadfastly adhered to its noble motto: 'Ana'ana e Auauna,' which means, 'to serve with passion and dignity.' Over the decades, this guiding principle has shaped and defined the quality and commitment of our medical professionals,” stated Taule'ale'a.

Taule'ale'ausumai highlighted the S.M.A.'s robust membership, which currently stands at 141 dedicated professionals. Notably, the association boasts a balanced gender composition with 52 per cent female members and 48 per cent male members. 

The members are distributed across various sectors: 89 are employed full-time by the Ministry of Health, 32 are private general practitioners, and 10 work in private sectors including academia and institutions such as the Oceania University of Medicine, the National University of Samoa, and the World Health Organisation. Additionally, 10 members reside and serve in New Zealand and Australia.

The conference also celebrated the inclusion of 13 new graduates from prestigious institutions. The new doctors—Dr. Uila Limã, Dr. Helena Taeu, Dr. Juliana Chewlit, Dr. Senerita Taituave, Dr. Stephen Tuautu, Dr. Java Esera, Dr. Sonja Matalavea, Dr. Aliilelei Junior Tenari, Dr. Fagaoalii Laiti, Dr. Fialaui'a Lefauaitu, Dr. Jared Lameko, and Dr. Ariel Ioane—were warmly welcomed. 

Their fresh perspectives and skills are vital to the continuous growth and excellence of the medical community in Samoa.

Despite facing significant challenges over the past year, including a crisis that affected doctors' salaries and overtime rates, the S.M.A. has shown remarkable resilience. Dr. Lamese underscored the association's unwavering commitment to its mission amidst these adversities.

“The Samoa Medical Association stands resilient and committed to its mission. Today, we come together to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our members,” Dr. Lamese affirmed.

The conference served as a platform not only for reflection and celebration but also for forging a path forward in tackling the health implications of climate change and neglected tropical diseases.

On Friday, there will be various presentations including those by Dr. Dyxon Hansell of the W.H.O., Professor Colleen Lau on controlling lymphatic filariasis in Samoa, Dr. Vaimaila Salele on Dengue Fever outbreaks in Samoa, Pule Dr. Viali Lameko on the evolving health patterns in Samoa, and Afaese Dr. Luteru Tauvale from the Samoa Meteorological Division, among others.