🗣️ PaNGONA Advocacy

Advocacy is at the heart of what we do. The Papua New Guinea Oncology Nurses Association (PaNGONA) is a strong and united voice for oncology nurses, patients, and families across the country. Through leadership, collaboration, and education, PaNGONA advocates for equitable, evidence-based, and patient-centred cancer care in every province of Papua New Guinea.

Our advocacy work extends beyond raising awareness—it is about driving change, influencing policy, and empowering nurses to become agents of transformation within their communities and health systems.

1. Advocating for Quality Cancer Care

PaNGONA champions the delivery of high-quality, accessible, and safe cancer care for all Papua New Guineans. We work with healthcare leaders, government departments, and international partners to strengthen oncology services, improve access to treatment, and ensure that every patient receives compassionate and dignified care.

2. Strengthening the Role of Oncology Nurses

We advocate for the recognition of oncology nursing as a specialist field within Papua New Guinea’s health workforce. Through engagement with health authorities and institutions, PaNGONA promotes fair representation, professional advancement, and inclusion of oncology nurses in key decision-making processes.

3. Promoting Cancer Awareness and Prevention

PaNGONA supports and participates in national and international cancer awareness campaigns, including World Cancer Day, Pinktober, and World Hospice and Palliative Care Day. These initiatives help educate communities, challenge stigma, and promote early detection and prevention strategies.

4. Influencing Health Policy and Systems Strengthening

PaNGONA collaborates with government agencies, academic partners, and NGOs to influence cancer-related health policies and ensure that nursing perspectives are included in the national cancer control agenda.
We actively contribute to discussions on workforce planning, education standards, and the integration of palliative and supportive care within the national health system.

5. Empowering Nurses as Advocates

We believe every nurse has a voice that can inspire change. PaNGONA provides training and mentorship to help nurses become confident advocates for their patients, their profession, and their communities.
Through workshops, leadership programs, and international partnerships, we strengthen nurses’ advocacy skills and help them engage meaningfully with policymakers, media, and the public.

💜 Our Impact and Vision

PaNGONA’s advocacy efforts are shaping the future of cancer care in Papua New Guinea. From hospital wards to national conferences, from community outreach to international collaboration, we are building a movement that gives oncology nurses a platform to lead, educate, and influence positive change.

Our vision is a nation where every voice for cancer care is heard, where every patient has access to quality treatment, and where every oncology nurse is empowered to advocate with confidence, compassion, and purpose.