Bunbury urologist recognised for prestigious award

14 Jul 2022

Dr Chapman, who has lived and practised in Western Australia’s south west for more than 20 years, is the recipient of this year’s Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand’s prestigious Christchurch Medal for life-changing urology care she has provided for over a decade in Madagascar.

The award recognises urologists who have provided exceptional service and contribution to the improvement of quality life through humanitarian endeavours.

St John of God Bunbury Hospital Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Williams said Dr Chapman’s work was something the hospital was proud to support. 

“Dr Chapman is an exemplary model of St John of God Health Care’s Vision, Mission and Values in action by providing healing, hope and a greater sense of dignity, especially to those most in need,” Mr Williams said.

“Not only does she do this exceptional work in Madagascar, she continues to offer our patients the very best care and service in Bunbury. 

“We are proud to support Dr Chapman’s life-changing work by donating equipment and disposables for her trips.” 

The Rotary Clubs of Australind, Bunbury and South Bunbury have also worked tirelessly to fundraise for specialised surgical equipment now in Madagascar.

Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Michael Nugara said Dr Chapman’s award was well deserved.

“Sue has worked tirelessly to equip hospitals in Tulear and the capital Antananarivo, establishing a model of foreign medical aid which is pragmatic, effective and compassionate,” Mr Nugara said.

“This award recognises her humanitarian work to introduce, establish and support modern urology in Madagascar – work that will impact the Malagasy community for years to come.”

Dr Chapman identified Madagascar’s need for urology services in 2008, at a time when 75 per cent of the country’s population lived below the poverty line.

Since then she has provided essential and life-changing urology surgery and care to people in need up to three times per year.

“Thanks to the support from Australian Doctors for Africa, I, along with  my colleagues Dr Lydia Johns Putra and Dr Richard McMullin, who are urologists at St John of God Ballarat Hospital, visit the town of Tulear and surrounding areas in Madagascar’s south west three times per year,” Dr Chapman said.

“We operate on dozens of patients who would otherwise receive no treatment annually, with the operation restoring their dignity, relieving chronic pain and infection, and allowing men to return to work.”

Dr Chapman has also established a urology training program in partnership with Madagascar’s only medical school in the capital of Antananarivo. 

“The goal is to provide on ground upskilling of local surgeons in endoscopic surgeries that they will have the equipment and skills to continue the practice and pass on their knowledge to future generations,” Dr Chapman said.