Tongan Student Wins ProCare Prize

 
MEDIA RELEASE

Tongan Student Wins ProCare Prize
 
AUCKLAND – 13 May 2009 – Tony Muller, of Howick, received the ProCare Prize in General Practice today as the top-rated Pacific medical student in last year’s general practice segment at the fifth-year undergraduate course at University of Auckland’s School of Medicine.

The annual prize – created to stimulate interest in general practice, as a career, for Pacific students – was awarded this morning in a ceremony at ProCare’s Grafton offices. 

“It’s a great honour to receive this award and support for a career in primary care,” said Tony, who is of Tongan descent. “For me, general practice is an ideal working environment. It requires a variety of skills; a chance to work in the community, watching people and families grow; and the opportunity to make a difference.”

The prize of $2,000 provides for registration fees, transport and accommodation to the annual conference of the Pasifika Medical Association.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, ProCare Chief Executive, Ron Hooton said: “This award not only recognises Tony’s achievement and enthusiasm for general practice, but also ProCare’s commitment to address the severe shortage of qualified Pacific GPs in New Zealand and better serve our Pacific populations.”

The annual award, which began in 2003, is presented in conjunction with the University of Auckland, School of Medicine.

ProCare also presents a Prize in General Practice to a top-rated Maori medical student. That award will be made later this year.

ENDS

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