Dr Wiremu MacFater, awarded the 2024 RACS Johnson & Johnson MedTech SET Scholarship through the Indigenous program, describes it as “a good mix of mentorship and training.” 

A Surgical Education and Training (SET) Trainee specialising in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (ENT) in Aotearoa New Zealand, his scholarship is advancing his research on middle-ear infections in Māori children. Dr MacFater hopes to mentor the next generation of Indigenous medical professionals.

Research focus: tackling middle-ear infections
Dr MacFater’s research identifies gaps in the middle-ear healthcare system, particularly for Māori children. His project involved interviewing healthcare providers in Te Tai Tokerau/Northland region who specialise in treating children.

“We need to understand what’s already in place before introducing new initiatives. Too often, projects are introduced without consulting those on the ground,” he says.

The goal is to improve care for children with ear diseases and ensure timely treatment. “Many children may not be accessing the care they need, and we need better ways to identify them early.” 

His findings will guide future interventions to improve middle-ear healthcare.

Highlighting inequities in hearing loss treatment
Dr MacFater’s research also highlights disparities in accessing treatment for noise-induced hearing loss, particularly within Māori communities.

“We found a clear inequity in access to hearing loss treatment. This research was important in shedding light on those disparities,” he says.

While awaiting formal publication, his work has gained significant attention, with projects accepted for presentation at this year’s New Zealand ORL Head and Neck conference.

“As we achieve more, it creates a flow-on effect—more opportunities lead to even more opportunities,” Dr MacFater says.

Funding mentorship and future projects
The RACS scholarship also supports mentoring Indigenous students and Trainees. With funding still available, Dr MacFater is mentoring a junior doctor exploring ear surgery and ENT.
“She’s balancing family life and a surgical career. We’re considering helping her establish a master’s program.”

Central to his approach is the Māori Tuakana-Teina model, where experienced individuals (tuakana) guide those who follow (teina). This approach drives his research and nurtures future surgical careers.

Integrating technology for better care
Dr MacFater is exploring how new technologies can track hearing function and identify children who need intervention. Though not part of his original research, he is investigating technologies to enhance hearing screening and diagnose middle-ear disease.

“Currently, we assess a child’s hearing and recheck in three months, but we don’t know how much their hearing loss impacts daily life.

“This is crucial because these conditions directly affect a child's learning and development. Current assessments offer only brief snapshots, missing the continuous data needed to pinpoint children who require surgery.”

A career shaped by mentorship
Dr MacFater began his career not fully understanding the profession’s depth.

“You start with the intention of helping people and making a difference. It’s as you progress that you truly realise where you want to be,” he says.

His decision to specialise in ENT surgery was influenced by personal interests and mentorship.

“When I chose ENT, I considered what issues would be stimulating and rewarding. But it was really about the people I worked with and how their guidance shaped my career.” 

The value of the RACS scholarship
Dr MacFater describes the scholarship as a “fantastic opportunity” due to its flexibility.

“It’s not tied to strict criteria, which is rare. You can use the funds for research or other projects that align with your goals.” 

He compares it to the whānau ora initiative, where communities determine their own needs.

“This kind of support is invaluable, especially when research can be tough to pursue during surgical training,” he says.

Balancing work and family
Professionally, Dr MacFater sits on the board for the Māori Doctors Association Te Ora (Te ohu rata o Aotearoa), handling strategic planning and meetings.

Outside work, he spends most of his time with his young family. “I have three kids, aged five and under, so it’s a busy household! There’s not much downtime,” he says.