Mapping the Biomedical Engineering Workforce in 16 Pacific Island Countries and Territories to Strengthen Capacity and Health Service Delivery

Abstract

Background: Biomedical engineering services play a vital role in clinical services and patient care by ensuring effectiveness and safe operation of medical devices and technology in healthcare settings. In the Pacific Island region, the biomedical engineering services has been a regional priority, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, no recent situational analysis has been carried out, with the last analysis conducted in 2014.

Aim: This study aims to assess the number and capacity of biomedical engineers and technicians currently supporting the Ministries of Health in the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) in order to strengthen capacity and enhance biomedical services to ultimately improve health service delivery in the Pacific.

Methods: A Biomedical Situational Analysis Questionnaire and a Biomedical Workforce Profile were used for the assessment across 22 PICTs in 2023. Data were validated by key biomedical staff in each country.

Results: A total of 16 PICTs participated in the study. The findings indicate that there were 98 biomedical engineers and technicians in the region. Of these, 94% were local professionals working within their respective Ministries of Health, while 4% were expatriates from Fiji and Tonga, and 2% were from Philippines. Women represented 17% of the biomedical workforce and the majority (66%) were under the age of 40. With regards to their qualifications, 21% hold a bachelor's degree and 62% have a certificate and/or diploma relating to biomedical engineering. A majority of the surveyed countries (80%, n=13) reported that more than 50% of biomedical services in their respective healthcare facilities were provided in-house by their local biomedical engineers and technicians.

Conclusion: This is the most up-to-date comprehensive analysis of the biomedical workforce capacity available for the Pacific countries. This study shows the gaps in biomedical services and emphasizes the urgent need for governments and development partners to continuously support and strengthen the biomedical workforce in the Pacific region. Enhancing the biomedical workforce will contribute to an improved and more efficient healthcare service delivery in the Pacific.