Increase human resource capacity for PHAs: Doc

THE Government should look at increasing the human resource capacity of provincial health authorities (PHAs) to deal with the current Coronavirus (Covid-19) surge and other emerging challenges, a doctor says.
Southern Highlands Health Authority chief executive officer Dr Joseph Birisi said Covid-19 was here to stay hence there had to be permanent solutions to manage the virus going forward.
“Instead of hiring staff on short-term contracts, we should have permanent staff positions,” Birisi said.
“Use the pandemic and the resources that are coming with it as an opportunity to build up our capacity.
“People are not listening and adhering to the Niupela Pasin. These people that are protesting the Covid-19 vaccine will fall sick and still end up in hospital.
“Health workers are at risk.
“Build up the capacity of the hospital so that we have enough manpower.”
He said during the current surge the PHA had to hire 10 casual nurses for the hospital and eight for the districts to support the Covid-19 response.
He said the PHA had a capacity of around 800 staff and 500 more positions were approved by the Department of Personal Management (DPM) and awaiting funding.
He urged the Health Department and Department of Personnel Management to fund the positions.