Back to basics midwifery in Arawa, Bougainville, during 1998

Working in a country, which is suffering the aftermath of war, is a very professionally rewarding and at the same time, humbling experience. It highlights so many things that we in Australia take for granted. The importance of a safe water supply and an efficient sewerage system is vital for the well-being of a community. Illnesses that were important in Australia 30 or more years ago, were commonplace on Bougainville in 1998 and 1999. I was also reminded of how much reliance we place on modern technology as we practise obstetrics in Australia in 1999. In Bougainville clinical skills and common sense were all that the midwives had and they used them to great effect. Tribute should be paid to the men and women of the PMG (Peace Monitoring Group) for without their dedication and professionalism the improvement in the health of the people in Bougainville during the last 18 months would not have been possible.