About PRIDoC

At a meeting in 2000, members of three Indigenous doctors’ organizations identified both need and interest in bringing together Indigenous doctors from throughout the Pacific. It was envisioned as a forum for mutual support and for the sharing of resources and expertise. As many of our communities face similar challenges, it was felt that we had much to learn from, and to teach, one another. A formal organization was also considered that would serve to influence public health policies that affect indigenous communities, and would provide a mechanism to attract and manage resources for future PRIDoC activities.

An organizing committee began planning the first Pacific Region Indigenous Doctors Congress (PRIDoC). Core organizing members have been representatives of:

• IPAC (Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada)
• Ahahui o nã Kauka (Association of Native Hawaiian Physicians)
• Te Ora-Te Ohu Rata o Aotearoa (Maori Medical Practitioners Association of Aotearoa)
• AIDA (Australian Indigenous Doctors association)
• AIP (Association of American Indian Physicians)
• PBMA (Pacific Basin Medical Association)

With the support of Eli Lilly and Company, the international organizing committee set about planning for the first Congress and the establishment of a representative entity for the indigenous doctors associations of the Pacific region.

All of the past congresses have proven to be exciting and inspirational. Cultural exchange and the ensuing relationships are highlights of each meeting. We continue to learn, teach and inspire one another.