Collaborative efforts are making a tangible impact on healthcare services provided by the Western Provincial Health Authority (WPHA), with several key developments this week underscoring the power of partnerships.
The Papua New Guinea Emergency Medical Team (EMT) has donated an ultrasound scan machine to the Daru Provincial Hospital’s accident and emergency department.
This contribution follows a recent supervisory visit by Dr. Garry Nou, Deputy Chief Emergency Physician, which was sponsored by WPHA. The EMT will continue to support WPHA by providing training for medical staff in emergency patient care.
In another boost to healthcare services, the Public Health Division of the National Department of Health responded to a request from WPHA by donating a portable X-ray machine to Daru Hospital.
Procured through World Bank projects, the CAD4TB X-ray pack utilizes artificial intelligence to aid in the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) and is designed for easy transport, allowing it to be carried as a backpack.
This technology will enhance TB screening efforts in communities and will be deployed as part of WPHA’s Specialist Clinical Rural Outreach Program (SCROP). The machine was officially received by World Vision on behalf of WPHA.
Further strengthening medical services in the province, the Ok Tedi Fly River Development Foundation Limited (OTFRDFL) has provided a new ambulance to Daru Provincial Hospital.
The vehicle was donated on behalf of the CMCA communities along the Fly River corridor. In a ceremony marked by celebration, OTFRDFL Chairman Ps. Steven Bagari presented the ambulance to the hospital’s caretaker manager, Dr. Timothy Danaya, as hospital staff and community members gathered in jubilation.
Reflecting on these collaborative efforts, WPHA CEO Dr. Miriam Boga emphasized the importance of partnerships in driving progress.
“The potential for transformation is inevitable when everyone brings their share to the table – individuals, communities, the organization and department, the local and provincial government, and development partners,” she said.
These latest contributions highlight the growing role of partnerships in improving healthcare services in Papua New Guinea, ensuring better medical care and access for communities in need.