OUM students have been busy each week during March, April, and May assisting with Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Clinics scheduled at district hospitals throughout Samoa. These hands-on learning opportunities for students expose them to a South Pacific public health concern while also providing patient care to address gaps in underserved areas.

So What Is Rheumatic Heart Disease?

RHD is a condition that develops from untreated streptococcal throat infections, resulting in inflammation and damage to the heart valves. In the South Pacific regions, particularly in Samoa and American Samoa, RHD is a significant public health issue with a high prevalence.

The OUM team, led by Vice Chancellor and President, Asiata Professor Dr. Satu Viali, and working closely with the Samoan Ministry of Health, is making strides in improving healthcare access and addressing the burden of RHD through these dedicated community outreach clinics.

The clinics also provide essential diagnostic services that may not otherwise be available in these more remote communities. For instance, the team utilizes advanced diagnostic tools, such as echocardiograms, to assess the extent of heart damage in RHD patients, which is crucial for effective treatment and long-term care.

Local Healthcare Collaboration

The clinics are a joint effort among the OUM team, local healthcare providers, and the Ministry of Health. Not only do they bring much-needed care, but the also provide invaluable educational experiences for OUM’s Samoan students and those visiting to complete their required rotation in Samoa. Cecilia Amosa, Gabriel Asaua-Siua, Arthit Barnes, Kerupi Ioane, Torren Lameko, and Peter Redona are the students who have been handling the clinic’s patient interactions and examinations, giving them a valuable opportunity to practice their skills in a real-world setting while making a meaningful impact on the community, all under the guidance of Professor Satu.

Our In-House Visionary

In May 2023, Professor Satu was appointed Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology by the Yale University School of Public Health. This appointment reflects his ongoing commitment to international collaboration in medical research and highlights his history of contributing to initiatives addressing RHD in Samoa and the Asia Pacific. Pictured below, from left: Gabriel Asaua-Siua, Peter Redona, Professor Satu, Torren Lameko, and Arthit Barnes at a recent RHD Clinic.