Surgeons recognised for contribution to Aboriginal health

Surgeons recognised for contribution to Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander & Māori health
Wednesday 4 May, 2016

Two surgeons were recognised today for their contributions to better Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori health outcomes today at the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) Annual Scientific Congress in Brisbane.

The RACS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Medal is part of the College’s efforts to celebrate advancements that are helping to close the gap in health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The RACS Māori Health Medal is awarded for significant contributions by Fellows to Māori health advocacy and outcomes in New Zealand.

Professor Francis Lannigan is the 2016 recipient of the RACS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Medal.

A senior ear nose and throat surgeon at Princess Margaret Hospital for children, Professor Lannigan established a pro bono ear clinic two decades ago for Aboriginal children in the Kwinana Community Health Clinic in Western Australia.

Prof Lannigan continues to work in the Eastern Goldfields and Gascoyne regions providing access to patients who may not otherwise receive services.

He has contributed to significant research into middle ear disease in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children.

Microbiological, medical and environmental factors were monitored and correlated with middle ear status in the Eastern Goldfields Health Region.

Professor Andrew Hill is the 2016 recipient of the RACS Māori Health Medal.

Prof Hill is a general surgeon from Auckland, and a central figure in academic and clinical surgery in the Counties Manukau District Health Board.

Prof Hill’s nomination recognises his development of a robust mentoring program for Māori and Pacific Islander students over many years, which has resulted in high levels of attainment in degrees in clinical disciplines and PhDs.

His example has not only encouraged junior surgeons to higher levels of attainment but has also demonstrated what can be achieved through encouragement, support and mentoring.

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