In a groundbreaking medical outreach, the fifth batch of a Chinese medical team has brought essential healthcare services to the remote Eua Island in Tonga.
For the first time, the team conducted a weeklong service at Niu’eiki Hospital, marking a new milestone in China-Tonga medical cooperation. Despite challenges like the rainy season, difficult transportation, and language barriers, the doctors carried portable equipment into remote areas to reach those in need.
An 80-year-old villager, who received wound care at her home, expressed heartfelt gratitude. “The Chinese doctors came to my doorstep. Their help gave me new hope in life,” she said.
Team leader Lu Qingyang shared the impact of their work. “We treated over 300 patients and provided free health examinations for more than 200 residents. Conditions like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes were identified and addressed with targeted treatment plans,” Lu told local media.
The team also focused on prevalent dermatological and orthopedic conditions, earning widespread praise from the community. “The Chinese doctors not only provided professional medical services but also shared valuable experience with us, which is significant in improving our medical capabilities,” said Kafoaatu Tupou Moa, a senior nurse at Niu’eiki Hospital.
Comprising specialists in gynecology, orthopedics, ultrasound, anesthesiology, psychiatry, and pathology, the team offered a wide range of services. These included outpatient consultations, medical advice, telemedicine, health checkups, home visits, free medicine distribution, and health education campaigns. They promoted early detection and treatment, enhancing the overall health awareness among residents.
Chinese Ambassador to Tonga Liu Weimin visited the hospital to support the team’s efforts. In addition to medical services, the team introduced Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese fitness exercise, fostering cultural exchange and promoting health awareness. This innovative approach was met with enthusiasm by the locals.
Doctor Petrick Penitani, acting medical officer of Niu’eiki Hospital, expressed gratitude. “The Chinese medical team has truly brought health benefits to the people of Eua Island. We look forward to more visits that will provide better healthcare services to people on outer islands,” he said.
Lu emphasized the significance of their mission. “Our visit to Eua Island is an important step in fulfilling the promise of the Health Silk Road. We will make such missions a regular practice to ensure more island residents receive proper healthcare,” he stated.
Carried out from May 19 to May 26, the outreach services have strengthened mutual trust and cooperation in the public health sector between the two countries. It is also expected to contribute to building a global community of health for all.
Since being dispatched in July 2024, the team has treated over 3,000 patients in Tonga, providing high-quality medical services through several free clinics. “Since the launch of China-Tonga medical cooperation in 2018, we have laid a solid foundation for continued collaboration in the health sector between the two sides,” Lu noted.
