HILARY HOSIA
President Hilda Heine led a high-level visit to the Ministry of Heath and Human Services last Friday.
The visit included a tour of the facility with the hospital leadership team followed by a program at the Wellness Center to recognize female outer islands health workers and recent graduates from Fiji National University.
President Hilda interacted with patients and staff at various departments in the hospital. The key takeaway needed to deliver better services: more money and staff.
An open-air vehicle dedicated for the morgue was suggested as ideal way to transport deceased persons, as suggested by the morgue department. It was even suggested by the administration team that removing the $5 hospital fee would attract more people to seek healthcare.
President Hilda also visited the recently installed oxygen chamber at the hospital, where oxygen generators are connected directly to specific wards. Oxygen cylinders are now used as backups following the installation of the system.
President Hilda said the visit was an essential part of her first 100 days in office, where she pledged to visit essential sectors that provide direct services to the people.
At the Wellness Center ceremony, man about town Rickiano Antibas and band member Michael Laukon opened with the “Happy Birthday Song” as President Hilda walked in. “It’s her birthday, it’s the President’s birthday,” Rickiano said as he continued singing.
Special recognition was given to Dr. Aina Garstang, who President Hilda referred to as the First Lady of Pohnpei, for her continued support to MOHHS.