Lawlessness in the East New Britain Province (ENBP) is fast becoming a major burden on the health care system.
This was the concern raised by a medical doctor in the Rabaul District, who suggested more cooperation between law enforcement agencies and communities to curb escalating lawlessness and promote safety, to minimize this seemingly, unnecessary burden on the hospitals.
Dr. Kauve Pomat, a pediatrician with the Rabaul Provincial Hospital, said this state of lawlessness, has caused an upsurge in trauma cases that are overwhelming hospitals, by depleting their limited resources and overworking hospital personnel.
“The surgical unit is receiving trauma cases daily. The trauma is human inflicted and is something that can be stopped if there is a collaborative approach.”
“This year, I have done 35 post mortem cases with another 7 still to be done and this is just November. That means there are almost four to five deaths weekly.”
He said the numbers are alarming and the communities and government need to acknowledge that this is a concern that needs immediate attention.
The doctor stressed that effective crime prevention strategies are needed to improve security measures and foster a sense of community safety.
These strategies will also ensure that the provincial health system is not burdened unnecessarily and will allow health workers to provide timely and efficient care to those in need.