The highlight of the module was the exit examination which was made up of 7 sections. There were 2 written papers, 2 clinical vivas where candidates had to examine patients and formulate a diagnosis and management plan. There were 3 computer vivas (2 in operative surgery and 1 on investigation and diagnostic imaging).
Dr Richard Lander from Palmerston North New Zealand was the chief Examiner, and Dr John North from Brisbane Australia was his assistant. Two of our graduates Dr Stephen Kodovaru from Solomon Islands & Dr Tu’uau Shaun Mauiliu from Samoa, were invited as co-examiners during the weeklong examination process as part of succession planning for PIOA.
Dr Areta Samuelu & Dr Pita Sovanivalu successfully completed the final exam and will be eligible to graduate with a Master of Surgery (Orthopedics) from the National University of Samoa in Apia in April 2023.
