PNG’s Health System Faces Crisis as Public Health Reaches 'All-Time Low
Papua New Guinea's public health system is currently facing a significant crisis, with conditions described as at an "all-time low," according to Dr. Ken Wai, Deputy Secretary of the Health Department. Addressing the 24th National Health Conference, Dr. Wai highlighted the urgent need for public health interventions to prevent the system from collapsing under the strain of widespread disease and inadequate resources.
According to Dr. Wai, the nation is grappling with escalating health challenges, with malaria cases reaching a staggering one million annually and tuberculosis (TB) rates soaring to 424 per 100,000 people. TB remains one of the leading causes of hospital admissions and fatalities nationwide. Additionally, HIV prevalence has risen sharply, from 0.9 percent to 1.6 percent, with over 70,000 cases reported and an annual infection rate of 6,500 new cases.
Immunization rates also remain alarmingly low, with coverage for measles and pentavalent vaccines below 40 percent. In contrast, neighboring countries like Fiji and the Solomon Islands report vaccination rates of 94 percent and 60 percent, respectively. Other concerning trends include persistently low rates of supervised deliveries over the past two decades, alongside rising incidences of cancer, diabetes, strokes, and other non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Wai emphasized that health workers must take the lead in addressing these public health challenges. He urged staff to work at the community level to prevent diseases through direct engagement with families, villages, and public spaces, highlighting the essential role of proactive measures in public health.
To improve health outcomes, Dr. Wai proposed enhancing collaboration within the healthcare system. He emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships, regular training, and targeted funding for primary healthcare. He called for resources to support mobile clinics and outreach services, aiming to meet national health goals and ultimately reverse the current downward trend.
Also read
Post a Comment