Kerema greatly needs dentistry services: YWAM

There is a great amount of need for dentistry services in Kerema, Gulf Province, says team member and Blue Sky Medical and Dental Clinic dentist, Dr Sarah Kiniafa.

Dr Kiniafa is part of a land-based healthcare team that was deployed by YWAM Medical Ships for a one week patrol to Kerema.

In partnership with Kerema General Hospital, the team delivered optometry services, dental procedures and health education.   

“I’ve enjoyed having the opportunity to expand my services to outside of Port Moresby," said Dr Kiniafa.

“A passion of mine is to also raise awareness on oral cancer, which is now the fastest growing cancer in Papua New Guinea.

“Together with my team, we’ve been able to educate many people on the signs of oral cancer and how to prevent it. Little by little, we will see things turn around."

Over the space of one week, the team provided dental and optical services to over 500 patients, and health promotion to over 300 attendees. The group is made up of 22 volunteers from 8 different nations.

The land-based team is one of three health patrols YWAM Medical Ships is currently running in the Papua New Guinea. The Training and Medical Ships, MV YWAM PNG and MV Pacific Link, are currently serving in Morobe Province and East Sepik Province respectively.

Major supporters of YWAM Medical Ships include the PNG National Government, Puma Energy, Steamships Trading Company, PNG Ports Corp, Manolos Aviation, Oro, Morobe, Milne Bay, Central, Gulf and Western Provincial Governments, Sohe and Kiriwina-Goodenough District Development Authorities, Pro-Ma Systems, Trukai and the Australian Aid program.

Author: 
Press release