The Obstetrics and Gynecology team at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), led by Dr Robert Jones, successfully performed a complex cervical cancer surgery in collaboration with visiting international gynecologic oncologists on 16 April 2026.
Dr Jones is currently training to become Papua New Guinea’s first gynecologic oncologist under the International Gynecological Cancer Society (IGCS) Global Fellowship Program.
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He is mentored by Professor Emma Allanson and Dr Michael Burling from Australia.
As part of the IGCS curriculum, Dr Jones’ mentors visited PMGH to provide:
• Clinical supervision and support for advanced surgeries
• Ward rounds and patient reviews
• Skills transfer to local doctors
This collaboration is helping to build capacity and expand life-saving services for women in Papua New Guinea.
Dr Jones highlighted the growing momentum in women’s cancer treatment, stressing the need for a comprehensive cancer care system that includes:
• Prevention and early detection
• Vaccination programs, particularly against cervical cancer
• Routine screening
• Access to surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy
“This is a privilege for me. More importantly, it’s about the women of our country. As we train more specialists, the benefits will reach women across Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Professor Emma Allanson emphasized that the partnership is focused on building local capacity so more treatments can be delivered within Papua New Guinea.
The long-term vision is to establish a comprehensive cancer center at PMGH, including brachytherapy services for gynecological and breast cancers.
PMGH CEO Dr Paki Molumi expressed gratitude to the visiting specialists and reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to opening its comprehensive cancer center.
He noted that this initiative will reduce reliance on overseas treatment and improve survival outcomes.
This achievement marks a significant step forward in women’s cancer care in Papua New Guinea.
The shared goal is clear: fewer preventable deaths, timely treatment, and accessible care delivered at home.