PHA boss dies

National
Source:
The National, Friday July 8th, 2016

Southern Highlands people are mourning the death of Joseph Turian, the acting chief executive officer of the newly-established provincial health authority (PHA).
He passed away yesterday morning at the Port Moresby General Hospital after a long illness.
Medical services director Dr Joseph Birisi told The National that a fundraising drive was underway to send Turian for treatment overseas when he suddenly passed away.
He described Turian as a “very experienced and hard working man” who served the people of Southern Highlands for 39 years.
“He had been instrumental in the establishment of the PHA and the day he was appointed the acting CEO, he felt ill and did not take up his post,” Birisi said.
“He is a senior statesman and there will be a big gap in the health sector because he had touched the length and breadth of the province.”
He said Turian spent most of his life in Southern Highlands and the people would miss him dearly.
Nursing Services director Wesa Kerak said Turian went to Mendi in 1977 as a health extension officer.