NATIONAL HEALTH DIGITAL STRATEGY LAUNCHED

With support from developing partners, the national Department of Health lunched today the National Health Digital Strategy 2025-2023, the Provincial Health Authority (PHA) Digital Toolkits, the national ICT Policy 2024-230 and the certification presentation of PNG’s Elimination of Trachoma ceremony.

Minister for Health Elias Kapavore began by thanking key partners — including WHO, the Australian High Commission, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and other donors — for their continued support. He urged all PHA leaders to work together to ensure vital medical services are accessible and that every patient receives the care they deserve.

He emphasized that during the three-day program, all PHA CEOs and board members should empower each other with the tools and skills needed to strengthen health services and deliver positive outcomes.

He stated that, the toolkits launched today will track service delivery. He said, with the health system that’s already in place, this will enable all PHA’s to strengthen the health supply chain system.

“The PHA Digital Toolkits will help improve transparency and standardize operations, strengthen resources and increase collaboration, ultimately improving health outcomes across provinces.”

Meanwhile, Minister Kapavore announced that Papua New Guinea has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem that causes blindness and was awarded the Trachoma Elimination Certification on the 19th May 2025 in Geneva.

“This milestone reflects the power of public health at its best. Bringing services to those in rural areas. It is a reminder that, equity, visibility and prevention must be at the heart of our health system. We have eliminated Trachoma, our efforts to eliminate other tropical disease are also making strong, we have reached over 1.2million people and sitting at about 77% coverage in key province.”

Furthermore, Minister Kapavore encouraged all health workers, the citizens and partners, stating; “This victory belongs to you. Let’s carry It forward with purpose and determination.”