Clinical Administration Team
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Dr Fulton Shannon
Epidemiologist
Fulton is an Epidemiologist who commenced working at the Tongan Health Society in 2024.
He was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health from the University of Otago in 2023. Fulton’s other qualifications include:
Master of Philosophy in Applied Epidemiology and Disease Control, University of Ghana, 2016
Bachelor of Science, 2008 and Master of Public Health, 2010, both from Cuttington University Graduate School of Liberia.
Fulton has more than 10 years of practical experience in health research, public health programme coordination, infectious disease surveillance, and work in epidemic preparedness and response.
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Ilaisaane Vainikolo
Clinical Quality and Informatics Lead
Ilaisaane joined the Tongan Health Society in 2022 as a Clinical Quality and Administration Coordinator. In 2023, she was promoted to Clinical Quality and Informatics Lead. Ilaisaane is fluent in English and Tongan.
Her qualifications include a Certificate in Health Sciences and a Bachelor of Health Sciences, both from the University of Auckland. They were awarded in 2012 and 2015 respectively.
In 2024, Ilaisaane was named valedictorian of the Micro-credentialing course at the University of Auckland. The course focuses on improving health outcomes and well-being for the Pacific community.
This distinction reflects Ilaisaane’s commitment to developing her knowledge and applying it to practice, particularly in addressing the needs of Pacific patients.
The insights gained from this course have contributed to several initiatives within the organisation, including establishing culturally tailored health programmes and improved patient engagement strategies.
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Irene Vaka
Medical Receptionist
Irene joined the Tongan Health Society in 2018 as a Medical Receptionist. She is fluent in English and Tongan and has conversational Spanish.
She completed her Certificate in Medical Receptionist and Terminology in 2020 and Diploma in Business Administration in 2023 from the Career Academy.
Irene is focused on achieving the best outcome for patients and staff. She combines her administrative skills with a patient-centred approach to ensure patients feel welcome and that the reception office runs smoothly.
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Alisa Kafoa
Medical Receptionist
Alisa joined the Tongan Health Society in 2021 as a Medical Receptionist/Pacific Navigator. She had previously worked in urgent care and is well connected within the Tongan community.
She has advanced knowledge and skills in Medtech Evolution and in 2024 completed a Micro-credentialing course at the University of Auckland. This provided Alisa with an understanding of the key healthcare challenges facing Pacific communities.
Alisa is at ease dealing with people from all walks of life and has the skills to engage with customers in a way that quickly builds rapport.
Alisa is passionate and driven, which have served to help with her professional development.
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Hannah Finau
Medical Receptionist
Hannah holds a Certificate in Health and Wellbeing and joined the Tongan Health Society 2023.
She is fluent in English and Tongan, and as the first point of contact at Langimalie clinics, Hannah understands that her role is vital in creating a welcoming environment for the patients, based on a balance of professionalism and compassion.
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Toakase Lotulelei
Medical Receptionist
Kase joined Tongan Health Society in 2023 and is currently doing a course for a Certificate in Medical Reception & Terminology.
As a dedicated medical receptionist, Kase focuses on creating a welcoming and efficient environment for patients, ensuring their experience is smooth and supportive from start to finish.
Her tasks include responding to patient enquiries, making appointments and liaising with medical staff.
Toakase uses her commitment to providing exceptional care to enhance the patient experience and support the healthcare providers she works with.
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Funaki Maafu
Medical Receptionist
Funaki joined the Tongan Health Society in April 2024. She is fluent in Tongan and English.
Funaki’s professional journey began in education, where she successfully achieved a Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching in 2013. In 2020, she earned a Certificate in Supervision Level 5, and a National Certificate in Retail Level 4 in the same year.
Funaki was a Medical Receptionist at Local Doctors for five years. During this time she worked at various branches, including Glen Innes and Otara.
As an active member of the City Hilltop Church, Funaki encourages those in need of medical care to seek expert advice from their GP.
Funaki is committed to fulfilling her professional responsibilities by effectively engaging with patients and ensuring their needs are addressed.
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Selina Tuimoala
Medical Receptionist
Selina joined the Tongan Health Society in 2024 as a Medical Receptionist. Her previous experience and qualifications in the tourism industry have equipped her well for this front-line role. Selina is fluent in English and Tongan.
Selina possesses excellent organisational skills which ensure high-quality outcomes. Her patients describe her as gentle, personable, and highly engaging. She is also recognised for delivering exceptional customer service.