PACMAT service to the Pacific recognised through WHO verification

The Pasifika Medical Association Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) has achieved a major milestone, having successfully completed the World Health Organization’s Emergency Medical Team (EMT) verification process for Type 1 mobile teams. This recognition confirms that PACMAT meets the global standards outlined in the Classification and Minimum Standards for Emergency Medical Teams, a significant step that affirms the team’s capability to respond effectively and safely to emergencies across the Pacific region.

PACMAT, a multidisciplinary team of Pacific health professionals, was established in 2009 following the Samoa tsunami. Since then, the team has provided culturally grounded emergency support across both Pacific nations and New Zealand-based disasters. With over fifteen years of experience, PACMAT has become a trusted partner during national crises, with systems, processes, and standards that align strongly with WHO frameworks. This WHO verification marks a new chapter in PACMAT’s development, reinforcing its readiness and strengthening its contribution to regional disaster response.

The verification followed two days of engagement, during which PACMAT presented an overview of its operations and capabilities through site visits, presentations, and discussions attended by WHO representatives, peer reviewers, and regional observers.

“The World Health Organization’s Emergency Medical Team (EMT) initiative strengthens in-country health emergency response capacities and ensures access to a highly trained surge workforce during emergencies,” said Dr Gina Samaan, WHO Regional Emergencies Director for the Western Pacific Region.

“PACMAT’s deployment to support response efforts in the aftermath of Vanuatu’s earthquake (2024) is an example of the vital role that surge support teams play during a crisis. EMTs form a critical component of the Global Health Emergency Corps (GHEC) effort to address future threats with greater resilience, coordination and effectiveness.”

Debbie Sorensen ONZM, CEO of PMA, says the verification reflects not only PACMAT’s expertise, but also its long-term commitment to empowering Pacific countries.

"PACMAT was established to respond to the urgent needs of our Pacific communities in times of crisis, but our mission goes beyond immediate relief. We are equally focused on building the capability of our Pacific neighbours to lead their own emergency responses.

"We hope this milestone inspires more Pacific countries to pursue WHO verification, strengthening emergency response systems across the region."