Foeoletini Foundation providing substance abuse counseling via online telehealth services

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Christopher James Foeoletini Ledoux Foundation (The Foeoletini Foundation) has conducted its first month of online coordination and telehealth consultation with an off-island certified substance abuse disorder/ addiction clinician at its headquarters in Fagatogo, American Samoa.  

 “This is a huge milestone for the foundation founded nearly two years ago and for the territory as we continue to see more families impacted by the use of meth[amphetamine] every day,” said Olomua Fiafia Sunia, board member for The Foeoletini Foundation.

“We are ahead of schedule with meeting our goals of conducting virtual/ online telehealth services, which were planned for early next year. Our clients have completed their first sessions and scheduled future consultations per their treatment plans,” he said.

According to the Foundation’s statement, telehealth sessions are efficient, direct, and offer greater discretion for clients. During the Code Red COVID-19 lockdown, telehealth has proven to be a valuable alternative during restricted in-person access to treatment services. Online coordination and scheduling around the availability of both the clinician and the patient reduce delays in the recovery process.    

 “On behalf of the board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our stakeholders and partners locally and abroad. Advances in technology will ensure that our clients have the best resources available, and your donations and prayers have been the driving force in making this possible,” Olomua said.

BACKGROUND

The Foeoletini Foundation telehealth initiative is funded 100% by private donors, and the Foundation continues to seek federal assistance diligently to maintain and expand these services.

They are also looking to build partnerships with DHSS, DHS, DOC, LBJ Medical, DOH, and DPS for any funding opportunities.

The Foeoletini Foundation conducts village youth activities to educate the youth on the long-term impact of drugs in the community. The Foundation also manages the Eastside Little League Baseball Association, which provides summer and spring leagues and services to nearly 200 children from as far as Tula, Vatia, Aoa, and Fagaitua, Amouli, and the rest of the Fagaloa District.  

For further information on the Foundation visit their website at www.foeoletini.org or call 256-0000.

 (Source: The Foeoletini Foundation press release)