Provincial health set for a shake-up

 By SHIRLYN BELDEN 

THE Provincial Health Authority Act is the single reform initiative which the Government will  implement to resolve the fragmanted health system at provincial level, Health Minister Michael Malabag says.  

While the Government strives to better service delivery in the country through reform initiatives, the health sector has looked at strengthening and maintaining its delivery system by putting more emphasis on provincial health authorities that coordinate or manage health services, procurement and delivery of medical supplies to the people.  

An intensive reform programme on establishing these health authorities has started and will be expanded to all provinces following an agreement between provincial governors and the department. 

A project unit has been established to facilitate the programme.  

The rollout of the programme had been developed and implemented in seven provinces, Malabag said. 

“The provincial health authority reform is one of the major reforms the health sector is undertaking to improve management and coordination of health services in provinces.”

The plan has started in Eastern Highlands, Western Highlands, Milne Bay, with Enga, West Sepik, West New Britain and Manus currently undertaking it as well.