Bridging the ocean: Kiribati Australia alliance in mental health.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to demonstrate the benefits of collaboration between Australia and Kiribati, a Pacific island nation, to enhance Kiribati's mental health system.

METHOD: The collaboration involved a training program for a Kiribati senior mental health leader in Melbourne, Australia, and service planning including prioritisation of key areas for development.

RESULTS: As well as receiving general training in community-based mental health, the Kiribati mental health leader gained skills in modification of the inpatient environment, with plans for implementation in Kiribati within the current limited resources. Future planning will focus on shifting from an emphasis on acute psychiatric treatment and custodial care to a recovery-oriented approach.

CONCLUSION: The international exchange was a positive experience for both the Kiribati participants and their Australian colleagues. Knowledge transfer was achieved in a short time, and service development appropriate and realistic for the Kiribati environment was planned.