PNG Needs More Hospitals as PMGH Struggles With Rising Patient Numbers

Calls have been made for major health infrastructure expansion in the nation's capital after concerns emerged that Port Moresby General Hospital is being overwhelmed by patients who could be treated elsewhere.

Speaking in Parliament, Abau MP Sir Puka Temu said the growing population of Port Moresby is placing enormous pressure on the city's main referral hospital, particularly in its emergency and maternity departments.

 PNG Needs More Hospitals as PMGH Struggles With Rising Patient Numbers

Sir Puka said information available to him showed that six out of every 10 patients attending the emergency department are classified as Category 3 cases.

These patients require medical attention but do not normally need specialist doctors or highly specialised hospital services.

He asked Health Minister Elias Kapavore whether the Health Department had assessed the situation and what plans were in place to improve patient flow within the capital's health network.

To help reduce overcrowding, the Six Mile Polyclinic was upgraded to operate around the clock and receive patients who would otherwise seek treatment at PMGH.

Sir Puka said the move had helped reduce emergency department attendance, with surgical-related presentations dropping by approximately 30 per cent.

He also highlighted the pressure on hospital wards, saying most maternity beds are occupied by mothers experiencing routine births that could be handled by other health facilities.

The former Health Minister recommended the establishment of several Level 4 hospitals throughout the city and a new Level 5 hospital for the National Capital District, together with another major hospital to serve Central Province and Goilala.

Port Moresby's population has now surpassed one million residents, while approximately 17,000 babies are born every year, averaging around 60 births daily.

"Sixty per cent of emergency cases are Category 3 patients which don't need specialist doctors."