Making expert skin care a reality across the South Pacific

Pacific Dermatology is an Australian not-for-profit – its mission is to improve skin health in the Pacific by increasing the number of specialist dermatologists.

Funding for skin disease and education

A shared commitment to health across the South Pacific

Before the opening of the Pacific Dermatology Training Centre in 2019, there were only three dermatologists across the entire Pacific region. Since then, philanthropic support has been the cornerstone of our progress — helping us expand specialist training, clinical services, and access to care for Pacific communities.

Philanthropy at the heart of our mission

Generous contributions from philanthropists, foundations, and pro bono medical specialists have made it possible to advance our vision:

That everyone in the South Pacific can access expert diagnosis and treatment for skin disease within their own country.

These partnerships have funded training programs, supported facilities, and strengthened collaboration between Pacific nations and Australia.

Sustainable impact for South Pacific communities

Since establishment in 2017, we have:

Developed the Pacific Dermatology Training Centre at Twomey Hospital in Suva, Fiji, the first of its kind in the South Pacific, a partnership of the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Fiji National University
Established a partnership with Fiji National University to accredit and offer a:
Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology (1 year) , and
Master of Medicine in Dermatology (3 years),
Supported and coordinated the delivery of Dermatology training via Fiji-based and visiting international doctors and via online training, and
supported the training of:
12 Diploma of Dermatology students from Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands, PNG, Samoa, and most recently, Vanuatu
7 Master of Medicine in Dermatology students from Fiji, Solomon Islands and Kiribati.

The health impact of Pacific Dermatology’s work is significant – since 2018, the skin health clinic at Twomey Hospital has developed its capacity from treating 800 patients to treating more than 2,000 per month in 2024.

In 2024 three Master of Medicine in Dermatology students graduated, doubling the number of dermatologists working in the Pacific.

This support helps strengthen local expertise, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ensure long-term outcomes for Pacific people.

“A multi-year funding commitment provides sustainability for this essential education program, building our capacity to create a community of Dermatology health professionals who can treat more of our people locally.”

— Dr Meciusela Tuicakau, Director, Pacific Dermatology Training Centre

Global recognition and ILDS support

In 2024, the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) recognised the impact of our work and committed significant multi-year funding to help us grow.

International League of Dermatological Societies support contributes to:

Ongoing operations of the Pacific Dermatology Training Centre

Expansion projects and capital works

The advancement of Dermatology education and patient care across the region

As the world’s peak Dermatology body and an official partner of the World Health Organization, ILDS plays a vital role in promoting global Dermatology education, care, and science.