Welcoming Pitcairn's New Doctor
Dr. Silvia Paz arrived on Pitcairn Island with her partner, David, on Sunday, April 26, bringing more than 25 years of medical experience, much of it gained in remote and rural communities. Dr. Paz will serve as Pitcairn’s doctor until September 2026.
Passionate about isolated places and small communities, Dr. Paz said she was drawn to Pitcairn by the opportunity to serve the community while experiencing island life. She described her first impressions of the island as overwhelmingly positive, praising its welcoming residents, resourcefulness, skills, and strong community spirit.
During her time on Pitcairn, Dr. Paz hopes to become fully involved in community life while continuing to support and care for the island’s residents.
The Marketing and Communications Officer recently sat down with Dr. Paz to discuss her medical career and her new life on Pitcairn.
What first inspired you to take on this role on such an isolated island?
I have always had a passion for isolated and remote places, as well as small communities. I enjoy experiencing different cultures and adapting to new environments. The diversity of cultures and ways of life has always interested me, and I feel very comfortable integrating into communities like this one.
What were your first impressions of the island and the community?
From the moment I arrived, I loved it here. I was impressed by the abundance of fresh produce and the strong sense of community. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming, friendly, and supportive.
What stands out most is how skilled and resourceful people are. Everyone seems willing to help and contribute. Although the medical centre is small, it is well equipped to serve the community.
What do you see as the most rewarding part of being a doctor in a place like Pitcairn?
The most rewarding part of being a doctor is helping people and earning the satisfaction and trust of the community I serve.
Even during difficult moments, including when I need to deliver hard news, it is important for people to know that I will be there to support and care for them professionally and compassionately.
Compassion is essential at every stage of life, and I try to bring understanding and empathy into every interaction with patients and families.
What is one thing you hope to experience or achieve while living on Pitcairn?
I want to experience Pitcairn not only as a doctor, but also as a member of the community.
I hope to fully integrate into island life by attending community activities, going fishing, participating in local events, and learning more about the culture and traditions.
Communities like this have so much to teach us about resilience, cooperation, and connection. I hope that when my time here eventually ends, I will be able to look back and truly say, “I lived there, I contributed there, and I belonged there too.”
Working in a remote island environment can be demanding. How do you deal with the pressure of unexpected challenges?
Working in remote locations throughout my career has taught me how to adapt, remain calm under pressure, and manage challenges with limited resources.
I believe strongly in teamwork, honesty, and making the best use of the support and skills available around me. Those experiences have helped me become flexible, practical, and resilient in difficult situations.
Rachael adopted her in early 2021, she later travelled to the UK before beginning her journey to Pitcairn where she is expected to remain for around a year making her the remotest diplodog in the British Foreign Service network.
Aster adores people and is very much enjoying all the attention she's getting on Pitcairn. She loves paddling in the water but has yet to conquer swimming, sleeping in during the morning and spends most of her walk sniffing all the new smells. She will give you her paw in exchange for a snack.