(PRESS RELEASE; EMBASSY OF CHINA- Apia, Samoa)- The Embassy of China in Samoa and the Government of Samoa (through the Ministry of Health) co-organized a Free Medical Screening Program for select local communities in Savaii from the dates of December 9th to 10th 2021.At the conclusion of the screening Program around 252 local residents from these communities had been medically screened and consulted.
The Free Medical Screening was implemented by the Chinese Medical Team in Samoa, with medical services provided including the measurement of blood glucose levels, blood pressure monitoring and diagnosis and treatment for common diseases. Through it’s partnership with the Ministry of Health, additional services were also made available including audiology testing, ears nose and throat consultation and basic eye (ophthalmic) examinations.
The program commenced with a keynote speech by the Honourable Valasi Toogamaga Tafito Selesele, Minister of Health followed by His Excellency Chao Xiaoliang, Ambassador of China to Samoa. The Honourable Minister of Health elucidated on the history of extensive medical assistance from China over several decades which has included visiting Chinese specialists, humanitarian assistance and human resource development.
H.E. Ambassador Chao Xiaoliang uttered that health is the most important treasure of the life and everybody must take care of their health for which regular check-ups are essential. H.E. Ambassador thanked the Ministry of Health, of Sama, the villages and district hospitals involved and all the participants for being a part of the event and expressed his willingness for enhancing cooperation in the medical field for the two countries. The Chinese Embassy donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to both the communities and Sataua & Fuailalo District Hospitals at the end of the launching ceremony.
The Chinese government has started sending medical teams to Samoa to provide voluntary medical services to Samoan people since 1980s. Up to now, altogether over 130 medical professionals of 19 medical teams have worked in various hospitals in Samoa. Since 2018, China has enhanced Chinese medical team aid and selected experienced doctors from top hospitals to work in Samoa for half-year terms. The current batch of CMT, which consists of 8 medical professionals,are currently working at TTM hospital. In addition to their clinical services provided at TTM Hospital, they have now also conducted free medical clinics in local communities.
