The National Department of Health and UNAIDS are reassuring the public that HIV testing and treatment services remain available throughout the country.
The National Department of Health has secured a 12 month supply of essential HIV
commodities, including antiretrovirals (ARV) and HIV test kits.
An assessment of ART clinics and HIV testing clinics in late January confirmed there were no disruptions to services.
‘’There is no shortage of HIV drugs and reagents in PNG. The Government of Papua New
Guinea finances all ARV drugs and reagents.” said Mr Wai, Deputy Secretary of Public Health.
Mr Wai said an estimated 48,000 men, women and children living with HIV are currently
receiving ARV treatment.
He reiterated the importance of HIV prevention, including practicing safe sex.
Dr Nano Gideon, National STI/HIV Program Manager confirmed that ARV drugs are purchased by the National Government through the Health Department and are free of charge in Papua New Guinea.
“The commitment of the Government of Papua New Guinea in procuring these essential HIV commodities has ensured the uninterrupted supply of lifesaving services for the more than 48,000 enrolled in HIV treatment,” said UNAIDS Country Director Manoela Manova.
The national community-led monitoring (CLM) hotline is available for information and assistance with HIV services: 73096477.
Although some personnel including clinicians, trackers and data entry clerks who support HIV services, and are funded through the United States Government, may be unavailable to support services in some clinics in NCD, partners are working closely under the guidance of NDoH to ensure the absence of these essential personnel does not affect access to HIV testing and treatment.
Community-led services and community-led monitoring have been affected.
These community-led interventions are especially strategic because they focus on the places and populations where the epidemic is growing and they complement inputs from governments and other donors, including the Global Fund and Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
During the US foreign aid review period, we call on partners in PNG, especially the NCDPHA, the development sector and the private sector to band together and
ensure these crucial services continue.
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