Training
Please note: Tentative Dates for Module 1 in 2023 are 13 March to 1 April 2023 inclusive. Paediatric orthoapedic module (13 – 18 March 2023), Tumour module (20-23 March 2023) and Infection, Inflammation and Professional topics (24 – 1 April 2023).
The PIOA program is a modular program held over 3 years. It is accredited as a Master of Surgery (Orthopaedics) through the National University of Samoa. The final exit examination is administered by independent Australian and New Zealand orthopaedic surgeons who have in the past been senior examiners for the Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA) and New Zealand Orthopaedic Association (NZOA).
PIOA is in discussions with Fiji National University and has an application with the Fiji Medical Council for accreditation of the program, This is expected to progress over the next 12 months. The PIOA program is not recognised in Papua New Guinea (PNG) by the PNG Medical Board. It is also not a recognised qualification in Australia or New Zealand. PIOA is affiliated with the AOA and the NZOA and is a member organisation of the Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association (APOA)
PIOA aims to provide students with practical skills in orthopaedic surgery.
Training will be delivered through LIVE – IN modules.
These modules will be delivered at different training locations throughout the Pacific Islands
These will be of 3 weeks duration and held twice a year in February/March and August/ September.
The course duration will be 3 years.
In addition candidates will have mentoring and supervision visits including support by email and Zoom.
Please check this link for current dates as program dates are subject to change.
Draft timetables
Introductory course
Professional development & Infection & Inflammation
Hip
Trauma
Paediatrics
Tumour
Knee
Upper limb
Spine
Foot & ankle
If you are an orthopaedic surgeon and would like to help us with providing training during the live -in modules please contact us. Please advise which dates you are available and which topics you wish to teach. We will contact you for a CV and will confirm in writing if we can use your skills. Lecturers provide their services on a pro bono basis.
DRAFT AGREEMENT BETWEEN PIOA AND MINISTRY OF HEALTH
Please click here for a copy of the training agreement that needs to be signed before a candidate can be accepted for training