The day featured a number of services women could access such as mammograms, cervical smears, bowel screening and flu vaccinations; on the day, 71 procedures had been completed. 

Etu Pasifika Canterbury Nurse Director, Matty Teata, says it was rewarding to create a safe space for Pasifika women to talk about their health. 

"Being able to facilitate an intentional space for our women that was caring and safe was really important, especially for those whose first time it was accessing some of the services. This meant we were able to create reciprocity and trust between our health professionals, providers and the people that came through.  

"Events like this are so important in addressing inequities in healthcare for our Pasifika women because we're removing barriers to access while honouring and supporting women through their health journey." 

ScreenSouth Ltd Health Promoter, Sharon Malietoa, emphasised the importance of partnerships and working together. 

"We partnered with our trusted stakeholders and were able to provide a venue, free kai, screening room facilities, a receptionist, free bowel screening, health advice and resources, two radiographers and three health promoters.  

"Along with Etu Pasifika, we came together to supply free gifts and resources for all the women who had booked appointments for either cervical only or dual screening. 

"I encourage our women to take care of their health and attend our next event to get their screenings and health checks done. It's time to put ourselves first as we are so busy taking care of everyone else." 

Ms Teata reiterated on the valued partnership with ScreenSouth Ltd. 

"The partnership we have with ScreenSouth is invaluable and has grown and been nurtured for almost three years. Completing up to 70 procedures at the Women's Health Day is phenomenal and could not have been done without the partnership and key relationships with ScreenSouth and Breastcare Canterbury." 

The next Women's Health Day event will be held in September 2023.