Josh Cronin-Lampe
Josh studied a Master of Public Health because he wanted to affect policy and real change towards improving equity, population health and wellbeing.
“My thesis was fundamentally aimed at characterising the extent of the problem of patient non-engagement, the risk this posed to both the health and wellbeing of those in the community, and the effectiveness of the screening programme. The results are being used to inform the health promotional activities of the Pacific Eye Institute (PEI) and the Fred Hollows Foundation more broadly.
“For my thesis, I worked with these organisations to analyse the severity of Diabetic Retinopathy in patients that present to screening at the PEI’s diabetic eye clinic, as well as the long-term follow-up of these patients over time.
Working with the Fred Hollows Foundation of New Zealand and the Pacific Eye Institute was definitely the highlight of my study, as we were able to work alongside each other to design a meaningful and useful research programme.
“Winning the Global Health Prize for Top Student was also another highlight and I was fortunate to have such amazing supervisors and collaborators who were extremely supportive, connected and insightful. Their guidance opened up the opportunity to embark upon a thesis that had tangible impacts for the organisations we worked with.
“I always had a passion for the social sciences and wanted to affect policy and real change towards improving equity, population health and wellbeing.
“After graduating, I landed a great role in the strategy and policy team at the Health Research Council of New Zealand. We have the responsibility of ensuring that publicly-funded research delivers maximum impact and improved health and wellbeing for all New Zealanders. It’s a rewarding role and my study helped prepare me well for it.”