Building Bridges of Care: Taking Paediatrics Abroad’s Mission of Global Paediatric Health Equity
In a world that can often seem overwhelming, the words of Desmond Tutu remind us that it’s the collective effort of individuals doing their “little bits of good” that can truly make a difference. In our work with such a cross-section of businesses and organisations, we are truly lucky to engage with people who are focused on making an impact.
One organisation exemplifying this philosophy is Taking Paediatrics Abroad (TPA), a charity with a vision for equitable healthcare for children worldwide. HCG has elected to support TPA with a variety of measures as of this year and we would like to share a little more about who they are.
A Mission Rooted in Compassion and Expertise
TPA’s mission is clear: to share expertise in paediatric care, prevent and control diseases, save lives, and create a brighter future for children and young people in low-resource settings globally. Established in 2019, the organisation facilitates connections between paediatric doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals in low-resource Asia-Pacific countries and remote Australian Aboriginal communities with Australian paediatric subspecialists.
In line with its commitment to supporting clinicians, TPA conducts Zoom-based sessions to enhance early recognition of child abuse, providing necessary care and interventions. A significant 2023 project involved TPA’s support for establishing a Child Protection Service at the National Paediatric Hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, achieved through online education and face-to-face meetings with a volunteer expert introduced by TPA.
Adapting to Challenges: The TPA Telehealth Project
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 prompted TPA to adapt its approach. Travel bans led to the development of the TPA telehealth project, ensuring that the exchange of knowledge and expertise continued despite physical barriers. The project has proven invaluable, with feedback affirming the ongoing benefits of TPA’s activities.
Filling Critical Gaps in Paediatric Care
In the ever-evolving landscape of medical knowledge, subspecialisation is inevitable. TPA recognises the significance of collaboration with subspecialist colleagues to provide the best outcomes for children. In resource-limited settings, access to such expertise is limited, making TPA’s work crucial in empowering local paediatric colleagues to care for children with complex medical conditions.
A Message of Gratitude and Collaboration from Managing Director Dr Kathryn Currow
In 2023, TPA, under the leadership of Managing Director Dr Kathryn Currow, continued its mission of providing education, clinical guidance, and support to clinicians in low-resource countries. The organization has also extended its support to Australian Aboriginal children in remote New South Wales, demonstrating a commitment to global and local impact.
Dr Kathryn Currow emphasises the importance of collaborative medical care, especially for sick children with complex problems. TPA acts as a bridge, connecting paediatric subspecialists with clinicians in low-resource settings, enabling the collective application of the latest clinical evidence within the limitations of available resources.
Global and Local Impact: TPA’s Reach in Australia and Beyond
Since 2020, TPA has introduced telehealth consultations for Aboriginal children in remote New South Wales, showcasing the organisation’s “glocal” approach. Internationally, TPA’s Zoom meetings have connected paediatric colleagues from low-resource countries with subspecialist paediatric counterparts in Australia, covering a wide range of paediatric subspecialties.
The impact of TPA’s work extends to countries such as the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Cambodia, Mongolia, and Vietnam. The organisation’s commitment to building relationships and supporting paediatric colleagues in low-resource settings is evident in the reciprocal sharing of knowledge and experiences.
HCG’s Commitment to Community and Support for TPA
Community is at the heart of everything we do here at HCG, it is the bedrock in which the business was built on and now as part of the Grimsey Group we continue that commitment.
Recognising the synergy between their values and TPA’s mission, HCG is excited to support TPA’s initiatives both locally and abroad. This collaboration is a testament to the shared belief that investing in the well-being of young adults and children is an investment in the future.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Support
As TPA continues its vital work, the need for support grows. The organisation’s future hinges on sustained relationships, responsiveness to priorities, and additional funds to enhance its ‘back office’ capabilities. As Henry Ford’s words remind us, “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
Conclusion: Bridging Gaps, Building Futures
In a world where collaboration and compassion are keystones to progress, Taking Paediatrics Abroad stands as a beacon of hope. By connecting hearts and minds across borders, TPA is not just providing medical expertise but building bridges that lead to a brighter, healthier future for children globally. Watch this space for more announcements on how you can get involved in 2024 as TPA continues to make a profound impact on paediatric healthcare. We are proud to support TPA on this journey.
If you would like to know more about TPA and the incredible initiatives they are driving, please visit their website here.
TPA is a charitable organisation registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission with endorsement for tax deductibility status (DGR-1). The Australian Business Number is: 35 635 999 076.