Inspired by a close family member’s lived experience with diabetes, Australia Awards alumnus, Shivaali Vanshika, dedicates her career to providing the best in preventive foot care to address Fiji’s increasing rates of amputations.
In Fiji, almost 1 in every 3 Fijians are diagnosed with diabetes, which accounts for about one-third of the population. Alarmingly, there is 1 amputation performed every 12 hours due to diabetes related complications.
Sadly, this statistic also included Shivaali Vanshika’s beloved late grandfather and influenced her personal journey into the specialised field of podiatry.
“It was my personal desire to become a podiatrist after seeing my late maternal grandad go through a lower extremity amputation due to a diabetic foot ulcer. Seeing the challenges that he faced made me realise the importance of foot health and also inspired me to help prevent others from suffering from these kinds of complications”, said Shivaali.
Today, Shivaali proudly holds the role of Podiatry Officer at the National Diabetes Hub Centre in Suva within Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
“As a podiatrist, I’m able to provide preventative care and also prevent these diabetes related foot complications which ultimately leads to amputations. On average, I see about 100 patients a week and they come here for high-risk foot care.”
With an alarming growth in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the grim reality that over 80% of Fiji’s annual mortality being attributed to NCDs (with diabetes emerging as one of the major contributors), Shivaali’s role is vital in educating diabetic patients on the importance of foot health.
“With my theoretical knowledge, I have a very good understanding of the lower extremity anatomy, the different assessments to do and the different diagnostic procedures to use to make a diagnosis and create evidence-based treatment plans based on my patient’s needs.”
The opportunity to study abroad was a proud moment for Shivaali and a personal win to broaden her knowledge and expertise in podiatry. Her steadfast dedication to provide the highest level of patient care is evident in her heartfelt commitment to improve foot health education and awareness in the country.
“The journey of studying Podiatry through the Australia Awards Scholarship has allowed me to develop my independence and also has equipped me with expertise and confidence to provide high quality podiatric care to patients.”
Looking ahead, Shivaali is collaborating with stakeholders to advance public awareness on foot health at a broader level to address the rise in amputation surgeries every year.
“I’ve also been a part of this team which is creating a new Footcare Guideline that is still in the process of being finalised.”
Shivaali’s ingrained personal calling to improve patient care and well-being of diabetic patients is a powerful testament of how personal loss can inspire profound change and foster lasting positive impacts in our communities.
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