Chinese Government sends 2nd medical team to Kiribati

In 2021, the National Health Commission of China appointed the Shandong Provincial Health Commission to form the first medical team to assist Kiribati following the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The Provincial Health Committee handed over the task of forming a foreign aid medical team to the Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical College. The medical mission lasted for six months and was completed on January 4th, 2023. On December 18th, 2022, China dispatched the second Chinese medical team to Kiribati to perform a one-year mission.

The team consisted of five medical professionals from various specialties: Dr. Cao Lijun (Team Leader, Emergency Medicine, Qilu Hospital), Dr. Fan Lixia (Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital), Dr. Zhang Yunhua (Sonography, Liaocheng People's Hospital), Dr. Che Xiaoshuang (Radiology, Liaocheng People's Hospital), and Dr.

Ma Qiuhua (Internal Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical College). During their mission, the team worked primarily out of Tungaru Central Hospital (TCH) in South Tarawa. In Tarawa, they conducted 14 free clinics across communities, schools, councils, farms, and elderly organizations.

The team also traveled to eight outer islands—Nonouti, North Tarawa, Abaiang, Tab North, Tamana, Beru, Arorae, and Butaritari—to offer free clinics and community medical outreach.

Highlights of their outreach include the following events: On February 24, 2023, the medical team attended a handover ceremony where the Chinese government donated a second batch of medical aid to Kiribati in February 2023 (see Record ID#97296).

On June 9, 2023, the medical team provided free healthcare services to ~150 residents in North Tarawa, including blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, electrocardiograms, wound care, cardiac auscultation, and medication consultations.

The team also visited Buariki village and Abaokoro Health Center, and donated much-needed supplies like antibiotics, antifungal cream, and blood pressure monitors. On September 12, 2023, Dr. Cao Lijun and Dr. Che Xiaoshuang offered free medical services in Bakaka village, Tamana Island, reaching over 130 patients.

Services included diagnosis and treatment of critical conditions, wound care, and medical guidance, conducted in partnership with Kiribati’s health authorities.

On November 25, 2023, the Kiribati Ministry of Health and Medical Services presented certificates of appreciation to the second batch of the Chinese medical team for their outstanding contributions to public health in Kiribati.

The team concluded their mission and were succeeded by the third Chinese medical team on December 9, 2023, departing after a full year of service (see Record ID#107522).