Pacific Partnership Mercy Ship Medical Service & Assistance -- in Palau the past 2.5 weeks
I saw the Urological Surgeon & the Cardiologists with my main Internist doing a heart ultra-sound exam
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Pacific partnership 24-1 concludes in Palau, Leaving Legacy of Healing and Collaboration
by Leilani Reklai
January 5, 2024
Farewell ceremony for the Pacific Partnership 24-1, concluding a successful mission in Palau.
KOROR, Palau (Jan. 4, 2024) - The Pacific Partnership 24-1 mission wrapped up its fourth stop in Palau, leaving behind a trail of medical assistance, strengthened disaster preparedness, and a spirit of regional cooperation before setting sail for Chuuk State in the Federated States of Micronesia.
Over the past two weeks, the USNS Mercy, a floating medical marvel, transformed into a haven of hope for countless Palauans. Its medical teams tirelessly delivered critical care, conducting:
123 medical engagements,
1,138 dental procedures,
Prescription of 1,147 pairs of glasses,
Distribution of 970 sunglasses,
Performance of 84 surgeries,
But the Pacific Partnership’s impact extended far beyond the realm of medicine. The mission also provided:
Training programs for local medical personnel and disaster response teams, equipping them with vital skills to safeguard communities in the face of emergencies.
Infrastructure improvements, such as renovations to medical facilities and community centers, bolster the island nation’s resilience.
Veterinary clinics caring for the well-being of animals, a crucial component of overall community health.
Sports clinics, promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering camaraderie among community members.
Band performances, bridging cultural divides and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Palau.
“The Pacific Partnership is a beacon of solidarity and compassion,” declared U.S. Ambassador Joel Ehrendreich during the closing ceremony held at his residence. “It reminds us of the immense strength that lies in unity and collaboration, especially during times of challenge.”
The dedication of the service members and partners involved was particularly noteworthy. Having worked tirelessly throughout the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year holidays, their commitment was unwavering. As Captain Jeffrey H. Feinberg, Commanding Officer of the USNS Mercy, stated, “The sacrifices made are truly worthwhile when we see the gift of sight restored, a loved one able to stay with their family, or a community better prepared for future challenges, thanks to the care and expertise provided.”
President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Palau expressed profound gratitude to all participants, highlighting the mission’s multifaceted impact. “Palauans not only benefited from the medical services, infrastructure improvements, and training but also from the economic boost brought by the presence of the USNS Mercy and its personnel,” he said.
Whipps reaffirmed Palau’s open-door policy towards the United States and its allies, emphasizing the nation’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and security: “Palau will always welcome the United States and its like-minded partners as we work together to maintain stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.”
The Pacific Partnership’s successful mission in Palau is a testament to the transformative power of international cooperation. The mission has left a lasting legacy in Palau by providing life-saving medical care, building resilience through training and infrastructure improvements, and fostering cultural understanding. As the mission sets sail for Chuuk, carrying with it the lessons learned, and the spirit of collaboration, its impact on Palau and the broader region will continue to resonate.
https://islandtimes.org/pacific-partnership-24-1-concludes-in-palau-leaving-legacy-of-healing-and-collaboration/
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Palauans receive free, specialized Medical Care during USNS Mercy visit
by Island Times
December 29, 2023
KOROR, Palau - Over 100 Palauans received free, specialized medical care aboard the USNS Mercy hospital ship during its brief holiday visit, sparking hope and relief for many who lacked access to such services on the island nation.
From Dec. 21 to Jan 5, Mercy’s medical team performed surgeries in various specialties, including ear, nose, and throat (ENT), gynecology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, pediatrics, urology, vascular, and general surgery. These procedures, often unavailable or prohibitively expensive in Palau, offered a life-changing opportunity for patients struggling with ailments like cataracts, prostate issues, and other conditions.
One grateful patient, awaiting a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) to address urinary blockage, expressed relief at Mercy’s presence. “This would be costly if I were to go off-island for this treatment,” he shared.
Cmdr. Dr. Justin Nork, a urologist with the Mercy team, explained the TURP procedure as the “gold standard” for enlarged prostates, highlighting its prevalence during the mission. While five TURPs were scheduled in Palau, some patients with underlying health concerns couldn’t proceed.
Ophthalmology surgeon Cmdr. Dr. Gabriel Valerio proudly showcased a patient who regained sight after cataract surgery on both eyes. He explained the team’s prioritization of maximizing impact: “For humanitarian missions, we typically operate on one eye per patient to help as many as possible. But in this case, our schedule allowed for both eyes and her recovery has been excellent.”
The 70-year-old patient expressed her faith and trust in the treatment, attributing her healing to medical expertise and divine intervention. Witnessing her transformation, Captain Jeffrey H. Feinberg, commanding officer of the Mercy, emphasized the team’s satisfaction in providing such crucial services. “People have been really grateful, and we are very, very happy to provide that service,” he stated.
Beyond immediate medical care, the Mercy team engaged in capacity-building efforts, collaborating with local healthcare professionals like Dr. Maya from the Ministry of Health and Human Services. Captain Feinberg described this as the most enduring aspect of their mission: “That’s really what we love because that’s something that is enduring and keeps growing.”
The USNS Mercy visit to Palau formed part of the Pacific Partnership, an annual multinational humanitarian and disaster relief preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific region. This year’s mission focused on enhancing regional preparedness and response capabilities while providing essential medical services to communities in need.
For many Palauans, Mercy’s arrival brought physical healing, renewed hope, and a glimpse into a future with improved access to quality healthcare. As the ship departed, it left behind a legacy of medical aid, strengthened partnerships, and a testament to the power of international cooperation in times of need.
https://islandtimes.org/palauans-receive-free-specialized-medical-care-during-usns-mercy-visit/
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USNS Mercy arrives in the Republic of Palau for Pacific Partnership 24-1
by Island Times
December 22, 2023
The hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) arrives in Koror, Palau during Pacific Partnership 2024-1 Dec. 21, 2023. Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific and works to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships. (U.S. Navy Courtesy Photo)
U.S. Navy story by Lt. Cmdr. Cheryl Collins
December 21, 2023- USNS Mercy, a Military Sealift Command hospital ship (T-AH 19) arrived Dec. 21 in the Republic of Palau to begin the fourth mission stop of Pacific Partnership 24-1, the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific region. This marks the sixth time Pacific Partnership has come to Palau, the previous visit was in 2022.
At the invitation of host nations, Pacific Partnership’s mission partners will conduct tailored humanitarian civil action preparedness activities in areas such as engineering, disaster response, public health, and host nation outreach events.
This year’s mission will feature military personnel from Australia, Japan, United Kingdom, Germany, and New Zealand. The Pacific Partnership 24-1 mission has completed stops in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands and Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. Its final mission stop will be in Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia.
“The United States is committed to the people of Palau as we share deep ties and a long-standing friendship that spans decades”, said U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Palau, Joel Ehrendreich. “Pacific Partnership allows us to work shoulder-to-shoulder as friends and partner nations to collectively grow our ability to quickly respond to disasters or medical emergencies, if and when that comes to the Indo-Pacific region.”
USNS Mercy will anchor off the state of Koror with a team of more than 750 civilian crew members and uniformed military members. The ship has 12 fully equipped operating rooms, 1,000 hospital beds, radiological services, a dental clinic, a medical laboratory, a pharmacy, optometry facilities, a CT scanner, and an oxygen-producing plant.
During the Palau mission stop, the Pacific Partnership team will conduct community health engagements in Koror, Peleliu, and Babeldaob, which include optometry (vision screenings, glasses and sunglasses dispensing), dentistry (examinations, extractions, and fluoride treatments), and chronic disease screening. These services are free and open to the public on a first come, first serve basis. The U.S. Embassy Koror Facebook page will provide updated information on the location and times of these community engagements.
Surgeons will also perform operations onboard USNS Mercy. Patients will be pre-screened through a process coordinated through the Palau Ministry of Health and Human Services and with local doctors. Pacific Partnership medical providers will also conduct medical subspecialty care and training engagements at Belau National Hospital, working side-by-side with their Palauan medical colleagues, as well as training in trauma, obstetric, and neonatal emergencies.
Additionally, the U.S. Pacific Partnership band, comprised of musicians from the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, the Royal Australian Navy and the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force will perform free concerts at Ernguul Park on Dec. 23rd, Surangel’s Shopping Center in Airai on Christmas Eve, and at the Old Age Home in Koror on December 28th. There will also be host nation outreach events for Sailors to play sports with students who are on Christmas break from school. Experts in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief will conduct workshops for safe boating and disaster risk management.
“When speaking about the Palau mission stop, U.S. Joint Region Marianas (JRM) Senior Military Official for the Republic of Palau, Rear Admiral Greg Huffman said, “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to President Whipps, his staff and the entire Palau community for the support they have provided this mission. The trust built through collaborative exercises like Pacific Partnership strengthen our shared capacity and deepen our special strategic partnership.” Rear Admiral Huffman will attend the opening ceremony of Pacific Partnership 24-1 in Palau onboard USNS Mercy. “This mission fosters multilateral cooperation and emphasizes a multinational and whole-of-government approach between our countries that continues to promote stability, unity and prosperity in Palau and throughout the region.”
Born out of the devastation brought by the December 2004 tsunami that swept through parts of South and Southeast Asia, Pacific Partnership began as a military-led humanitarian response to one of the world’s most catastrophic natural disasters. Building on the success and goodwill of this operation, the U.S. helped spearhead the inaugural Pacific Partnership mission in 2006.
Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.
https://islandtimes.org/usns-mercy-arrives-in-the-republic-of-palau-for-pacific-partnership-24-1/
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Pacific partnership 24-1 concludes in Palau, Leaving Legacy of Healing and Collaboration
by Leilani Reklai
January 5, 2024
Farewell ceremony for the Pacific Partnership 24-1, concluding a successful mission in Palau.
KOROR, Palau (Jan. 4, 2024) - The Pacific Partnership 24-1 mission wrapped up its fourth stop in Palau, leaving behind a trail of medical assistance, strengthened disaster preparedness, and a spirit of regional cooperation before setting sail for Chuuk State in the Federated States of Micronesia.
Over the past two weeks, the USNS Mercy, a floating medical marvel, transformed into a haven of hope for countless Palauans. Its medical teams tirelessly delivered critical care, conducting:
123 medical engagements,
1,138 dental procedures,
Prescription of 1,147 pairs of glasses,
Distribution of 970 sunglasses,
Performance of 84 surgeries,
But the Pacific Partnership’s impact extended far beyond the realm of medicine. The mission also provided:
Training programs for local medical personnel and disaster response teams, equipping them with vital skills to safeguard communities in the face of emergencies.
Infrastructure improvements, such as renovations to medical facilities and community centers, bolster the island nation’s resilience.
Veterinary clinics caring for the well-being of animals, a crucial component of overall community health.
Sports clinics, promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering camaraderie among community members.
Band performances, bridging cultural divides and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Palau.
“The Pacific Partnership is a beacon of solidarity and compassion,” declared U.S. Ambassador Joel Ehrendreich during the closing ceremony held at his residence. “It reminds us of the immense strength that lies in unity and collaboration, especially during times of challenge.”
The dedication of the service members and partners involved was particularly noteworthy. Having worked tirelessly throughout the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year holidays, their commitment was unwavering. As Captain Jeffrey H. Feinberg, Commanding Officer of the USNS Mercy, stated, “The sacrifices made are truly worthwhile when we see the gift of sight restored, a loved one able to stay with their family, or a community better prepared for future challenges, thanks to the care and expertise provided.”
President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Palau expressed profound gratitude to all participants, highlighting the mission’s multifaceted impact. “Palauans not only benefited from the medical services, infrastructure improvements, and training but also from the economic boost brought by the presence of the USNS Mercy and its personnel,” he said.
Whipps reaffirmed Palau’s open-door policy towards the United States and its allies, emphasizing the nation’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and security: “Palau will always welcome the United States and its like-minded partners as we work together to maintain stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.”
The Pacific Partnership’s successful mission in Palau is a testament to the transformative power of international cooperation. The mission has left a lasting legacy in Palau by providing life-saving medical care, building resilience through training and infrastructure improvements, and fostering cultural understanding. As the mission sets sail for Chuuk, carrying with it the lessons learned, and the spirit of collaboration, its impact on Palau and the broader region will continue to resonate.
https://islandtimes.org/pacific-partnership-24-1-concludes-in-palau-leaving-legacy-of-healing-and-collaboration/
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Palauans receive free, specialized Medical Care during USNS Mercy visit
by Island Times
December 29, 2023
KOROR, Palau - Over 100 Palauans received free, specialized medical care aboard the USNS Mercy hospital ship during its brief holiday visit, sparking hope and relief for many who lacked access to such services on the island nation.
From Dec. 21 to Jan 5, Mercy’s medical team performed surgeries in various specialties, including ear, nose, and throat (ENT), gynecology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, pediatrics, urology, vascular, and general surgery. These procedures, often unavailable or prohibitively expensive in Palau, offered a life-changing opportunity for patients struggling with ailments like cataracts, prostate issues, and other conditions.
One grateful patient, awaiting a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) to address urinary blockage, expressed relief at Mercy’s presence. “This would be costly if I were to go off-island for this treatment,” he shared.
Cmdr. Dr. Justin Nork, a urologist with the Mercy team, explained the TURP procedure as the “gold standard” for enlarged prostates, highlighting its prevalence during the mission. While five TURPs were scheduled in Palau, some patients with underlying health concerns couldn’t proceed.
Ophthalmology surgeon Cmdr. Dr. Gabriel Valerio proudly showcased a patient who regained sight after cataract surgery on both eyes. He explained the team’s prioritization of maximizing impact: “For humanitarian missions, we typically operate on one eye per patient to help as many as possible. But in this case, our schedule allowed for both eyes and her recovery has been excellent.”
The 70-year-old patient expressed her faith and trust in the treatment, attributing her healing to medical expertise and divine intervention. Witnessing her transformation, Captain Jeffrey H. Feinberg, commanding officer of the Mercy, emphasized the team’s satisfaction in providing such crucial services. “People have been really grateful, and we are very, very happy to provide that service,” he stated.
Beyond immediate medical care, the Mercy team engaged in capacity-building efforts, collaborating with local healthcare professionals like Dr. Maya from the Ministry of Health and Human Services. Captain Feinberg described this as the most enduring aspect of their mission: “That’s really what we love because that’s something that is enduring and keeps growing.”
The USNS Mercy visit to Palau formed part of the Pacific Partnership, an annual multinational humanitarian and disaster relief preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific region. This year’s mission focused on enhancing regional preparedness and response capabilities while providing essential medical services to communities in need.
For many Palauans, Mercy’s arrival brought physical healing, renewed hope, and a glimpse into a future with improved access to quality healthcare. As the ship departed, it left behind a legacy of medical aid, strengthened partnerships, and a testament to the power of international cooperation in times of need.
https://islandtimes.org/palauans-receive-free-specialized-medical-care-during-usns-mercy-visit/
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USNS Mercy arrives in the Republic of Palau for Pacific Partnership 24-1
by Island Times
December 22, 2023
The hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) arrives in Koror, Palau during Pacific Partnership 2024-1 Dec. 21, 2023. Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific and works to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships. (U.S. Navy Courtesy Photo)
U.S. Navy story by Lt. Cmdr. Cheryl Collins
December 21, 2023- USNS Mercy, a Military Sealift Command hospital ship (T-AH 19) arrived Dec. 21 in the Republic of Palau to begin the fourth mission stop of Pacific Partnership 24-1, the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific region. This marks the sixth time Pacific Partnership has come to Palau, the previous visit was in 2022.
At the invitation of host nations, Pacific Partnership’s mission partners will conduct tailored humanitarian civil action preparedness activities in areas such as engineering, disaster response, public health, and host nation outreach events.
This year’s mission will feature military personnel from Australia, Japan, United Kingdom, Germany, and New Zealand. The Pacific Partnership 24-1 mission has completed stops in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands and Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. Its final mission stop will be in Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia.
“The United States is committed to the people of Palau as we share deep ties and a long-standing friendship that spans decades”, said U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Palau, Joel Ehrendreich. “Pacific Partnership allows us to work shoulder-to-shoulder as friends and partner nations to collectively grow our ability to quickly respond to disasters or medical emergencies, if and when that comes to the Indo-Pacific region.”
USNS Mercy will anchor off the state of Koror with a team of more than 750 civilian crew members and uniformed military members. The ship has 12 fully equipped operating rooms, 1,000 hospital beds, radiological services, a dental clinic, a medical laboratory, a pharmacy, optometry facilities, a CT scanner, and an oxygen-producing plant.
During the Palau mission stop, the Pacific Partnership team will conduct community health engagements in Koror, Peleliu, and Babeldaob, which include optometry (vision screenings, glasses and sunglasses dispensing), dentistry (examinations, extractions, and fluoride treatments), and chronic disease screening. These services are free and open to the public on a first come, first serve basis. The U.S. Embassy Koror Facebook page will provide updated information on the location and times of these community engagements.
Surgeons will also perform operations onboard USNS Mercy. Patients will be pre-screened through a process coordinated through the Palau Ministry of Health and Human Services and with local doctors. Pacific Partnership medical providers will also conduct medical subspecialty care and training engagements at Belau National Hospital, working side-by-side with their Palauan medical colleagues, as well as training in trauma, obstetric, and neonatal emergencies.
Additionally, the U.S. Pacific Partnership band, comprised of musicians from the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, the Royal Australian Navy and the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force will perform free concerts at Ernguul Park on Dec. 23rd, Surangel’s Shopping Center in Airai on Christmas Eve, and at the Old Age Home in Koror on December 28th. There will also be host nation outreach events for Sailors to play sports with students who are on Christmas break from school. Experts in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief will conduct workshops for safe boating and disaster risk management.
“When speaking about the Palau mission stop, U.S. Joint Region Marianas (JRM) Senior Military Official for the Republic of Palau, Rear Admiral Greg Huffman said, “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to President Whipps, his staff and the entire Palau community for the support they have provided this mission. The trust built through collaborative exercises like Pacific Partnership strengthen our shared capacity and deepen our special strategic partnership.” Rear Admiral Huffman will attend the opening ceremony of Pacific Partnership 24-1 in Palau onboard USNS Mercy. “This mission fosters multilateral cooperation and emphasizes a multinational and whole-of-government approach between our countries that continues to promote stability, unity and prosperity in Palau and throughout the region.”
Born out of the devastation brought by the December 2004 tsunami that swept through parts of South and Southeast Asia, Pacific Partnership began as a military-led humanitarian response to one of the world’s most catastrophic natural disasters. Building on the success and goodwill of this operation, the U.S. helped spearhead the inaugural Pacific Partnership mission in 2006.
Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.
https://islandtimes.org/usns-mercy-arrives-in-the-republic-of-palau-for-pacific-partnership-24-1/