Lene Andrea Troncoso Riroroko

2022 and 2023 recipient of the Fraternal Order of the Moai Award.

I am the first Rapanui woman graduate of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Chile as a surgeon and was recently accepted into the doctoral program in Medical Sciences with a neurosurgery specialty. As part of my PhD program, I plan to conduct research that addresses the particular health needs of Rapa Nui, such as endemic diseases. I will apply my knowledge to improve primary health care on the island, and will conduct prevention and education campaigns to address specific health problems, such as vector-borne diseases and lifestyle-associated non-communicable diseases. With the training received in medicine and the emphasis on community health, I plan to implement psychosocial support programs that address the unique stresses faced by the population of Rapa Nui. This may include training local mental health professionals, creating support groups, and implementing interventions that promote emotional well-being. In summary, my goal is to apply my skills and knowledge to improve medical care and address health challenges specific to Rapa Nui.