ViVa is an independent, not-for-profit society of physicians and their families from southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. It is a grass-roots development project that works in partnership with the Government of Vanuatu to provide basic health services to the southern islands of Vanuatu..

Since 1991, ViVa has provided continuous physician staffing for Lenakel Hospital on the island of Tanna. ViVa physicians fill the position of Medical Superintendent of Tafea Province for 6-month terms. During their service they are the only doctor for a population of 30,000 people. Their role includes clinical work, ongoing education of hospital staff, and coordination of health development projects. Other family members invariably find creative avenues to share knowledge with local communities and vice versa!

patient improving
Mama and pikinini - Photo by Dr. C. Tamboline 2005
hospital procedure
Lumbar puncture - Photo by Dr. P. Henry 2000