Third Quarter Newsletter July – September 2023
Issue 17
Our Mission
To provide comprehensive, compassionate, and equitable health care, health promotion and disease prevention to the people whom we serve throughout PNG.
Our Vision
To improve the healthcare of the people of Papua New Guinea whom we serve regardless of age,
religion, gender, or ethnicity.
Our Values
Our standards apply to everything we do as CCHS. We live and practice by our
“I CARE & COMPASSION” motto which exemplifies our mission and vision. In addition, CCHS staff and
volunteers practice the values of:
- Integrity: Honesty and responsibility to oneself and others
- Justice: Defence and advocacy for the rights of the poor and vulnerable
- Compassion: Genuine care and heartfelt concern for those we serve
- Excellence: Professional competence and responsible stewardship
In this Issue
- CCHS Niugini Islands Regional Conference
- Clinic Witnesses Surge in Child
Immunization Rates - CCHS Southern Regional Conference
- Conference highlights POM CCHS clinics
- CCHS and Central PHA Signs SLA to
Enhance Healthcare pg 8
• Overcoming Challenges to Improve Health
Services - Community and Diocese Unite to Resolve
Ongoing Issues - VHV Receive Refresher Training at
Tarakbits HSC - Callan Hosts Successful Eye Surgery
Campaign - CCHS Facilitate Sexual Health Training for
NCDPHA
CCHS of Alotau-Sideia Signs MOU with Community
The Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) of Alotau-Sideia is committed to ensuring the safety of its staff and infrastructure by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with local communities and the Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority.
Health Manager Sister Nomita Rozario has been instrumental in forging these vital partnerships, working tirelessly with local communities and the PHA to establish MOUs that protect CCHS staff from harassment and other disruptions. From the nine CCHS health facilities, the health manager was able to sign a total of five MOUs.
Sr Nomita emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “If we take out our nurses because of harassment and abuse from the locals, who will come and give them health service? Most of them must spend over k100 to travel to another health center. So, I am really happy that they know that this service is important.”
Despite facing challenges from geographical remoteness, infrastructure limitations, transportation difficulties, and unreliable network coverage, CCHS has struggled with community behavior, and law and order issues that have impacted their services over the years.
CCHS of Alotau- Sideia signed their latest MOU on September 6th focused on the Wataluma Health Center on Ferguson Island. Wataluma HC is the largest CCHS health facility in the province, operating as a rural hospital. The MOU’s purpose was to ensure the safety of CCHS staff and infrastructure, and to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of CCHS and the surrounding communities.
Present at the signing ceremony was His Excellency Bishop Roland Santos, Fr Basil Dikeuya, Sr Nomita, and Jean Rose of Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority. Sr Nomita emphasized that the MOU is “purposely for the good of their community and future generations.” Community leaders also highlighted the significance of the event, urging the people to relay the information to the entire catchment population.
His Excellency Bp Roland Santos concluded the event with an important message, stating, “We are all stewards and servants of the Lord and His people, so we (nurses) are here to serve them with solidarity to bring communion in the community.”
The MOU signings represent a substantial step forward for all parties involved, setting the stage for accountability and collective responsibility in the event of any breaches of the agreement.
NATIONAL SECRETARY’S MESSAGE
Greetings to Everyone,
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the dedicated staff of CCHS for their tireless efforts in making the CCHS Regional Conferences in all four Regions a success. You have all truly done extremely well, and these events have been invaluable in our collective growth. It was a recommendation from the Catholic Bishop Conferences, and I am immensely proud of the outstanding work you’ve accomplished.
In this newsletter, you will discover inspiring stories from the first two Regional conferences in the New Guinea Islands and the Southern Region. Through the sharing of health profiles and narratives from these regions, we hope to shed light on their challenges and remarkable achievements. If you find any of their approaches motivating, I encourage you to reach out and learn more about how you can integrate these ideas into your own services within your dioceses. Let this newsletter be a platform for sharing and mutual inspiration among our cherished staff.
The recent conference offered us a unique opportunity to come together, share our challenges, and experiences, and chart a way forward. It is crucial that we share the successful practices implemented in our respective dioceses, such as the MOU signing in Alotau- Sideia Diocese, which has proven effective. I encourage everyone to explore these ideas.
The conferences allowed us to identify areas for improvement, including infrastructure development, addressing issues like road access, network coverage for timely communication, electricity, and more. The conferences were a success, but they also gave us a valuable platform to pinpoint shortcomings and needs, which will play a crucial role in shaping our organization’s next five years. I call upon each one of you to actively participate in the planning process; it’s not just for health managers but for everyone to contribute to our development.
It was wonderful to connect with our dedicated nurses during the conference, and we also had the opportunity to hear firsthand from clinicians on the ground serving the most remote and rural parts of the country. Their experiences were enlightening, and they are an integral part of our planning and development process.
Furthermore, in response to another recommendation from the CBC, the National Office is actively preparing for two upcoming events: a fundraising dinner and a National CCHS Conference scheduled for May 2024. Both events will center around the theme “Improve Rural Services for our people from heart to health,” aligning with CCHS’s five-year focus on Systems Strengthening to enhance rural healthcare.
Now, it’s my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all our new staff members and also introduce the new Health Manager for Kerema diocese, Mr. Robert Miakore, who joined us in the third quarter of this year. We encourage you all to familiarize yourselves with our Mission, Vision, and Values here at CCHS. Remember that here, we are an extension of Jesus Christ’s work in caring for and healing the sick. When you become a part of this organization, this noble work becomes part of your calling on this earth.
As we move forward into the next quarter, I urge each of you to prioritize self-care and seek the guidance of Jesus in all your endeavors, as He is just a prayer away. Together, we can continue our noble mission of serving those in need and providing health and healing to our communities. Thank you all for your unwavering dedication and commitment.
With warm wishes and blessings,
Sr. Jadwiga Faliszek
National Health Secretary
Catholic Church Health Services
CCHS Niugini Islands Regional Conference
The Catholic Church Health Services of the New Guinea Islands (NGI) Regional Conference successfully hosted a three-day gathering of all dioceses in the region from July 24th to 28th, 2023 at the Rabaul Archdiocese. The conference promoted a diverse exchange of ideas and experiences from the CCHS of Rabaul, Kimbe, Kavieng, and Manus. Bougainville was not able to attend the conference due to flight cancelations by Air Niugini.
Archbishop Rochus Josef Tatamai MSC, the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Rabaul, reflected on the Catholic Church’s Catechism, emphasizing that understanding and loving God are central to human life. Mr. Norman Vakore, the ENBPHA Director of Public Health who was present at the conference highlighted the partnership between ENBPHA and the Archdiocese of Rabaul in delivering health services in the province.
Bishop Francis Meli, Deputy Bishop for Health, informed the conference that CCHS regional conferences are mandatory, emphasizing that patient care is the core focus of health. He also addressed the need for improved reporting of services and stressed the importance of effective health committees or boards in managing and reporting on each facility’s operations. Bishop Meli highlighted the significance of the CCHS 10-Year Strategic Health Plan which was developed in alignment with the National Health Plan 2021-2030 to advance healthcare within the CCHS network.
Archdiocese of Rabaul Health Profile:
The Archdiocese of Rabaul was established on November 15, 1966. It is now under the Most Reverend Rochus Josef Tatamai MSC DD CSM. One of the services operating under the diocese is the Catholic Church Health Services which is under the management of Maria Posanek who is responsible for the implementation of health policies, strategies so on. She will be working closely with the Archbishop and the diocesan health board to implement and carry out activities outlined in the 10-year CCHS Strategic Health Plan in alignment with the National Health Plan of the country.
CCHS Rabauls has a total of 10 health facilities one of which is the St Mary’s Vunapope District Hospital built in the 1930’s. This hospital serves a catchment population of over 11, 000 plus referrals from all over the province including the region as well.
St Mary’s Vunapope Hospital provides a variety of orthopedic and general surgery, obstetric services, pediatric services, internal medicine, and family health services including maternal child health clinics, family planning clinics, outpatient services, pathology (laboratory) services, and radiology services. In addition, there is now a hematologist from Australia who does blood films and bone marrow biopsies to diagnose blood disorders such as leukemia. One of the concerns for the hospital is the lack of specialist doctors, however, despite that, the hospital has some commendable achievements such as the installation of a new oxygen plant that will be used to generate oxygen for patient use. Apart from that, the implementation of programs to improve child health data in the province is delivering results. These programs are early neonatal care, and obstetric care courses, PPTCT programs, Tripple Elimination program (HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B), and better immunization coverage.
presenting the overview of the health admin operations.
Diocese of Kavieng Health Profile:
On the second day of the conference, the CCHS of Kavieng Diocese presented a comprehensive overview of its activities, challenges, and a visionary roadmap to address these issues. The session provided an extensive look at their provincial profile, encompassing their dedicated workforce, unique rural experiences, and facility placement.
The facility highlighted during the conference was the Tanga Health Center which is the furthest and most remote of the 7 health centres and one Voluntary Counseling Confidential Testing. It serves a catchment of 13,000 and is approximately 4-5 hours to Namatanai town by boat for referrals and administration work, it also takes another 4-5 hours by road to Kavieng town when there is a need to travel.
Tanga HC provides a variety of day-to-day primary healthcare including static mother and child health clinics, conducting health education/awareness to surrounding communities, integrating MCH programs with the New Ireland Provincial Health Authority, and so on.
However, they still face challenges in fully achieving their quarterly planned activities due to funding, logistics, transportation, communication, and no proper lighting systems.
Manus Deanery Health Profile:
CCHS Manus operates as a Deanery within the Diocese of Kavieng- Lorengau, with all Catholic services under the bishop’s authority. The Deanery Health Manager, Michael Marau oversees health services, implementing national health policies and plans guided by the diocese health board.
During the NGI conference, the Manus Denary Health Manager shared insights into the daily operations of two crucial facilities, Patu and Bundralis. These facilities play an important role in the province’s healthcare infrastructure, offering essential basic health services, including medical care and wellness initiatives. Their presentation explored the facilities’ operations in depth, shedding light on their invaluable contributions to the local community’s well-being. It also addressed the challenges they face, particularly in relation to human resources and daily operations. Both facilities are accessed by boat and there is no road link to the facilities. Patu HC has a catchment population of close to 4000 people and Bundralis HC has over 5000 catchment population that access the facilities for basic primary health care.
Diocese of Kimbe Health Profile:
During the regional conference’s second day, the Kimbe Diocese team shared their insights and updates on developments and challenges faced by the diocese and its health facilities. Established on July 4, 2003, Kimbe Diocese serves as the Catholic headquarters in West New Britain Province, with the bishop overseeing all Catholic health services. The Catholic Church Health Services are managed by a Health Manager who implements national health policies and plans under the diocese’s guidance.
The Kimbe Diocese presentation included a comprehensive profile of CCHS facilities in the province, featuring a map showcasing facility locations, services offered, catchment population figures, facility registration status, staff counts, and designations. It emphasized the diocese’s commitment to providing health services to West New Britain’s wider population.
The presentation also addressed challenges faced during the first and second quarters of 2023, highlighting strained relations between the Provincial Health Authority (PHA) and the diocese, affecting routine activities. Ethical, communication, and transportation issues hindered staff movement and efficient service delivery, exacerbated by the region’s geographical challenges. Infrastructural issues, including the need for facility upgrades and refurbishments, were also discussed, with broken hospital ceilings and inadequate fencing for facilities and staff houses, particularly in rural settings.
Diocese of Bougainville Health Profile:
The Diocese of Bougainville covers the entire Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), which includes the islands of Bougainville, Buka, Nissan, and Carterets. The first missionaries arrived in Kieta in 1901, marking the beginning of Catholic influence in the region. On 21 January 1904, the Northern Solomons was established as a Prefecture Apostolic, later evolving into the Vicariate of the North Solomons on 31 May 1930. Finally, it was formally designated as the Diocese of Bougainville on 15 November 1966.
Currently, Most Rev. Dariusz Kaluza MSF DD serves as the Bishop of the Diocese of Bougainville, responsible for overseeing the administration of all Catholic-run services in the area. One notable service is the Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS), which operates under the guidance of Health Manager Michaeline Pau. CCHS of Bougainville recently signed a Service Level Agreement with the Department of Health for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and is actively implementing the National Health Plan 2021-2030, as well as various other health policies and plans, all under the guidance of the CCHS health board and the Bishop.
Within the region, CCHS manages a total of 15 health facilities spread across three districts: North Bougainville, Central Bougainville, and South Bougainville. These facilities collectively serve nearly 100,000 people, providing crucial healthcare services to the local population.
Clinic Witnesses Surge in Child Immunization Rates
The Aona Subhealth Center (Aona SHC) is celebrating a significant improvement in child immunization rates in the first six months of 2023, thanks to the installation of a new solar vaccine fridge in April. This accomplishment comes after years of struggling to meet the targets set by the East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA).
The lifesaving solar vaccine fridge was a gift from the ENBPHA, fulfilling the need for a new fridge since January 2020. “The new solar fridge has allowed us to store vaccines, and carry out our planned immunization patrols,” remarked Bernard Areteumana, the Officer in Charge of Aona SHC.
In addition to this achievement, Aona SHC has made remarkable strides in other aspects of healthcare. The facility successfully completed the construction of five new toilets and a placenta pit, installed a desktop and printer, and appointed a new health committee to enhance healthcare services.
Situated inland with 18 clinic sites serving over 3,500 people, Aona SHC faces unique challenges in access due to rugged foot tracks, particularly during the rainy season. The closure of three Aid Posts in the area, namely Mapuna, Pulipuna, and Yauyau, has led to an influx of patients seeking medical assistance at Aona SHC.
Communication challenges, exacerbated by the need to walk significant distances for network coverage, have been a persistent issue. Limited connectivity hampers routine and supplementary health programs, as residents often face arduous journeys to charge phones or laptops.
Bernard Areteumana, the Officer in Charge of Aona SHC, highlighted the personal sacrifices made for reporting purposes, stating, “Every month I have to travel to a place with good network coverage to send the health report.”
The recent NGI Regional Conference shed light on the broader challenges faced by healthcare facilities in remote regions of the country. Recommendations from the conference include plans for constructing a waiting house to facilitate supervised births, improving staff housing conditions, and implementing comprehensive activity plans for transparent financial reporting.
CCHS Southern Regional Conference
Archdiocese of Port Moresby Health Profile:
The Port Moresby Metropolitan Archdiocese, originally established on May 10, 1889, and officially recognized as an Archdiocese on November 15, 1966, serves as the Catholic headquarters in the National Capital District of Papua New Guinea. It is part of the Vicariate Apostolic of New Guinea, dating back to May 10, 1899. Over the years, it has undergone several transitions, becoming a part of the Apostolic Vicariate of Papua on November 14, 1922, then achieving Vicariate Apostolic status on July 13, 1946, and finally becoming an Archdiocese in 1966.
Currently under the administration of Most Rev. Sir John Cardinal Ribat MSC, DD, the Port Moresby Metropolitan Archdiocese oversees various Catholic services within its jurisdiction. The Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) has only two urban clinics and operates under the guidance of Health Manager Sr. Geraldine Arua OLSH, who implements national health policies and plans in coordination with the Diocese Health Board.
Diocese of Kerema Health Profile:
The Kerema Diocese, established on January 16, 1971, covers the entire Gulf Province of PNG and operates under the direct administration of His Excellency Bishop Pedro Centeno Baquero S.D.B. The CCHS of the Kerema Diocese is under the capable management of Acting Health Manager Robert Miakore, who ensures the execution of national health policies and plans in collaboration with the diocese health board and the Gulf Provincial Health Authority. Comprising 25 health facilities, including 18 Aidposts, 5 sub-health centers, 1 health center, and 1 Voluntary Confidentiality Counseling and Testing (VCCT) unit, the Diocese faces challenges, with 3 of its facilities currently non-operational due to staffing issues. Accessibility to healthcare facilities and infrastructure remains a prominent concern, especially given that many of these facilities are in remote areas, reachable either by plane or after walking the bush tracks over several days.
Diocese of Alotau-Sideia Health Profile:
Established as Prefecture Apostolic of Samarai on 13th June 1946 and raised to the status of Vicariate Apostolic on 11th November 1956. The Diocese of Sideia was created on 15 November 1966. Later the name was changed to Diocese of Alotau-Sideia. The area comprises the Milne Bay Province and the diocese is under the care and administration of Most Reverend Bishop Rolando C. Santos CM, DD. One of the services in operation under the diocese is the Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) which runs (10) Health Facilities of which Eight (8) Are Health Centres, 1 Health Post, 1 School Clinic, and (1) VCCT Site in Gusaweta (Kiriwina Is) in the province.
Diocese of Bereina Health Profile:
Established on July 16, 1959, and officially recognized as a diocese on November 15, 1966, Bereina of Diocese (DOB) serves as the Catholic Church’s headquarters for the Central province.
Covering approximately 161 kilometers northwest of the nation’s capital, Port Moresby, Bereina Diocese is dedicated to offering essential services to a catchment population of approximately 83,863 across two districts. CCHS has a total of 17 health facilities in both Goilala and Kairuku districts.
CCHS of DOB plays a significant role in providing healthcare to the underserved communities in the districts and is managed by Health Manager Sr Gisela Sele who oversees the implementation of the national health policies with the guidance of the diocese health board.
Despite CCHS’s commitment to the healthcare needs of the people, it faces numerous challenges. These include deteriorating health infrastructures, limited staff across health facilities, inadequate water supply and sanitation, poor road connectivity, limited funding for health programs, a lack of proper medical equipment, and the need for clinic expansions to accommodate the growing population’s health needs.
As Bereina Diocese continues its mission to provide essential healthcare services, it remains dedicated to its motto, “To love is to serve,” and is determined to overcome the challenges that lie ahead to improve the well-being of its communities.
Diocese of Daru-Kiunga Health Profile:
The Diocese of Daru-Kiunga has a rich history dating back to the Vicariate Apostolic of Port Moresby. Over the decades, it has undergone several transformations, becoming the Prefecture Apostolic on 16 July 1959, the Diocese of Daru on 15 November 1966, and finally, the Diocese of Daru-Kiunga on 4 September 1987. Today, His Excellency Bishop Joseph Durero SVD plays a pivotal role in overseeing the administration of the diocese and its various services, including the Catholic Church Health Services.
CCHS of DKD operates a network of 24 health facilities, comprising one Urban Clinic, eight health subcenters, and 14 aid posts. While three aid posts are currently closed, the remaining 11 are actively serving the communities. CCHS is committed to expanding its healthcare reach, aligning with the Strategic Health Plan 2021-2030 and other fundamental policies.
Conference highlights POM CCHS clinics
St. Therese Urban Clinic
The St Therese Urban Clinic was established on February 21, 1971, in Hohola 1 and has been a pivotal healthcare institution not only for its immediate catchment areas but also for the provinces of Gulf and Central. Catering to a population of over 137,000 the clinic played a crucial role in the healthcare of the residents of Port Moresby.
The Clinic provided an extensive range of services from general outpatient care for adults and children to antenatal clinics, well-baby checkups, mental health services, and comprehensive healthcare. Its mission included family planning, nutrition, and addressing gender-based violence.
The clinic took a proactive stance in tackling major issues such as tuberculosis, HIV/STIs, and other communicable diseases including specialized clinics like the Men’s Health Clinic. They also provide regular doctor’s consultations to address specific patient needs, showcasing a commitment to holistic care.
Throughout 2023, the clinic engaged in outreach programs, reaching communities in various parts of the province. Quarterly activities, like the first quarter in Hohola 5 and the second quarter in Hohola 4, demonstrated the staff’s dedication to extending healthcare beyond the clinic walls.
St. Therese Clinic gained national recognition for its outstanding care standards. Notably, it excelled in a research initiative for NCDPHA clinics, participated in a successful Supplementary Immunization Activity, and hosted international visitors, including midwives from East Timor and a team from FHI 360.
Specialist doctors ensured the community had access to diverse medical expertise, and even a visit from a USA Congressman highlighted the clinic’s significance in provincial healthcare.
Despite notable achievements, St. Therese Clinic faced challenges like staff shortages, poor attendance, and limited drug supplies. Health Manager Sr Geraldine Arua has responded to the situation by creating new positions, hiring more nurses, and implementing regular staff meetings and debriefings. “We are doing our best to address drug shortages and secure a dedicated TB officer through our collaboration with the NCDPHA.” Sr Geraldine said.
Undeterred by challenges, the staff at St. Therese Clinic remained steadfast in their mission to provide quality healthcare. With plans to overcome obstacles, including staff reinforcement and improved drug procurement processes, the clinic aimed to be an enduring source of hope and health for the people of PNG in the years ahead.
St. Paul’s Clinic
The St Paul’s Urban Clinic was established on July 29th, 2015 and has grown to become a vital health center under the leadership of Sr Geraldine Arua OLSH. The clinic, with its dedicated team of 18 staff, served a population of 41,720, offering essential healthcare services to those in need. The services included general outpatient care, antenatal care, child health services, voluntary counseling, and testing (VCT), and antiretroviral therapy (ART) for those living with HIV. Additionally, they conducted simple blood tests for conditions like anemia, diabetes, sexually transmitted infections, syphilis, and malaria.
One of the clinic’s remarkable achievements was its commitment to outreach programs, thanks to the support of the Sexual Reproductive Health Integration Project (SRHIP). In the first quarter of 2023, they ventured into the Gerehu Stage 4 swamp, where they encountered numerous sick adults and children who were promptly treated. In the second quarter, outreach extended to stages 7 and 8 streets, providing immunization for children, health education, and outpatient treatment to the community’s displaced residents.
St. Paul’s Clinic also played a crucial role in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic by administering vaccinations since April 25th, 2022, further reinforcing its commitment to public health.
Sr. Gracey Panakal, the clinic’s officer in charge, expressed profound gratitude for the support received in their mission to provide healthcare services to those in need. The clinic’s dedication was also recognized through awards for excellence and positive feedback from outpatients.
Nonetheless, St. Paul’s Clinic faced its share of challenges. Some parents were hesitant to allow their children to participate in school medical assessments, and the clinic struggled with timely receipt of medical supplies and persistent blackouts. They also faced limitations in their laboratory capabilities.
To address these challenges, the clinic planned to improve awareness of school medical assessments among parents and teachers, purchase a new generator, and maintain vigilance in obtaining necessary medical supplies.
CCHS and Central PHA Signs SLA to Enhance Healthcare
The Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) of the Diocese of Bereina (DOB) and the National Catholic Church Health Services of Papua New Guinea officially signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the Central Provincial Health Authority (CPHA) marking a significant partnership milestone on Friday August 2023. The ceremony, held at Ametur House in Boroko, Port Moresby, marked a new chapter in collaboration between these healthcare organizations, solidifying their commitment to delivering essential health services to the people of the Central province.
Key figures from both parties attended the event, including the Most Reverend Bishop Otto Separy DOB, Sr. Gisela Sele, the Health Manager for CCHS DOB, Sr. Jadwiga Faliszek, National Secretary from the National CCHS office, and Graham Apian, Projects Director. Representing the CPHA were its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. James Amini, Dr. William Lagani, Director of Public Health, Dr. Maru Garo, Director of Curative Services, Mr. Abraham Apisai, Director for Corporate Services, and Mr. Marcel Burro, Family Health Coordinator.
The agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Tapini Health Center and the DOB previously, and this latest SLA strengthens the partnership between the two entities for the second time. Sr. Gisela Sele expressed her gratitude to the CPHA for the continuous support extended to their 17 health facilities across the Goilala and Kairurku districts.
“We truly appreciate the support and look forward to working more closely with you as we sign this SLA to work as partners in delivering health services to our people in the Central province,” Sr. Sele stated.
Dr. James Amini, speaking on behalf of the CPHA, emphasized the significance of the partnership, acknowledging that churches serve as the government’s valuable allies in service delivery. He pointed out that Central province’s vast geography poses unique challenges, covering a diverse range of areas from coastal regions to mountainous terrains in Abau, Rigo, Koiari, Kairiku, and Goilala.
“The services provided through this partnership must be strengthened and maintained,” Dr. Amini asserted, emphasizing the need to align service delivery plans to meet the common goal of serving the people of Central province effectively.
During the ceremony, Dr. Amini highlighted two crucial aspects of the agreement – transparency in funding and a robust reporting system. He emphasized the importance of knowing the funding status of all stakeholders to identify gaps and provide necessary assistance transparently. Additionally, he stressed the significance of sharing data to evaluate the impact of services and measure progress accurately.
Sr. Jadwiga Faliszek, expressing her perspective on the partnership, emphasized the importance of collaboration, planning, and support in delivering quality healthcare services to remote areas. She acknowledged the dedication of health workers in remote areas despite challenging living conditions. Sr Faliszek emphasized the need for decent accommodations for staff and the focus on strengthening rural health services. She appreciated CPHA’s assistance in transporting medications to remote locations, preventing neglect and ensuring that they can always rely on each other for support.
The signing of the SLA represents a significant milestone in the efforts to improve healthcare in the Central province. By working together, the CCHS, and the CPHA aim to overcome challenges and deliver vital services to the communities they serve. With a mutual commitment to the well-being of the people, the partnership is expected to yield positive outcomes in healthcare delivery in the years to come.
CCHS Bereina Receives Two Dinghies From CPHA
The Central Provincial Health Authority (CPHA) handed over two brand-new dinghies and an outboard motor to show its support to its partner in service delivery the Catholic Church Health Service (CCHS) of Bereina Diocese on August 11th, 2023.
The donation comprises two fiberglass 23ft dinghies equipped with a 40-horsepower outboard motor for Akufa and Yule Island Health subcenters. These dinghies will enhance the services of the Akufa and Yule Island Health subcenters, enabling them to be more mobile to extend their reach.
Dr. James Amini, Chief Executive Officer of CPHA, highlighted the organization’s commitment to collaborative efforts during the recent signing of the Service Level Agreement with CCHS on August 4th. He stressed that under his stewardship, CPHA stands ready to bridge any gaps or surmount challenges that arise.
The provision of the two dinghies is just one example of CPHA’s proactive approach. Dr. Amini shared his optimism about leveraging partnerships with the Provincial Government to secure essential resources, thereby enhancing healthcare service delivery across the province.
“Working together cordially and godly ensures that we achieve positive outcomes for the people we serve.” He stressed, “I am grateful for the great working relationship we already have in place and hope to continue building upon it.”
The donation of these dinghies stands as a testament to the power of cooperation and collective goodwill in addressing the healthcare needs of remote communities.
“I am just so happy that our health workers can now move more freely around to carry out their planned routine activities,” Health Manager Sr Gisela Sele said upon the arrival of the dinghies.
Akufa Health Subcenter which has nine catchment areas, caters to a population of approximately 6,000 people. Despite being equipped with a 19ft dinghy acquired in 2019, the facility often faced challenges due to motor malfunctions or dinghy issues, leading to costly arrangements with external vessels for vital outreaches and referrals.
Dinghy skipper for Akufa HSC Edward Angeange who was present at the handing-over ceremony said that they had a 19-foot dinghy that they use for all their activities and it was time they get a new one.
“This dinghy will help us in case we have an emergency, because sometimes when we are traveling for other work and an emergency comes up, we can’t assist them in time,” Angeange added.
Therese Ako, the Officer in charge of Yule Island Health Subcenter, expressed her gratitude for the timely assistance. Yule Island serves nine catchment areas, tending to a total population of 4,521. Annually, the center handles over 10 referrals, a testament to its crucial role in the region’s healthcare network.
Ako emphasized, “The burden of hiring third-party dinghies for our outreaches will now be alleviated, thanks to this new dinghy. We extend our deepest appreciation to the PHA for their invaluable contribution.”
The Akufa and Yule Island HSC are part of the Bereina Diocese’s 17 CCHS facilities. These remote health facilities are located within the districts of Goilala and Kairuku in Central Province and serve as lifelines to the local communities in these geographically challenging areas.
Overcoming Challenges to Improve Health Services
The largest health center within the Diocese of Kerema is the Dr. Maurice Adams Memorial Health Center in Kanabea, serving the Kotidanga Sub-District, which includes the middle Tauri, Ivori-Swanson, and part of Hangoia. This health center is very important to an estimated population of 70,000 to 85,000 individuals.
Kanabea Health Centre’s location presents unique challenges due to the rugged terrain, including mountains and rivers that are prone to flooding and landslides during the rainy season. These natural barriers make it exceptionally challenging to maintain essential services and infrastructure.
Furthermore, healthcare staff at Kanabea Health Center struggles with consistent challenges such as water supply shortages, solar system failures, and electricity shortages, especially during extended periods of rain that obscure sunlight for weeks. Inadequate healthcare waste disposal facilities and a lack of needle disposal infrastructure compound these issues.
During a recent Board meeting in September, Sr Buela Augustine who works as the Medical Laboratory Technician at the Kanabea HC expressed her gratitude for the continuous support from the Diocese administration. She stated, “We are grateful for the support of the Kerema Diocese, particularly Bishop Pedro and our admin staff Joseph and Neil, who provided us with water tanks that have been invaluable for our community. The maintenance of our hospital flooring, the establishment of a staff kitchen, and a room for antenatal mothers have improved our facilities significantly, thanks to the generous contributions from the Sisters of Cluny and our benefactors.” Sr Buela Augustine is from the Sisters of St Joseph of Cluny and has been working there in Kanabea since 2015.
Despite these formidable challenges, the dedicated healthcare professionals at Kanabea Health Center continue to provide vital services to the mountain-dwelling population. From January to September 2023, the center recorded an impressive total of 30,876 cases, with a breakdown of 13,743 male and 17,133 female patients. Common outpatient treatments include malaria, diarrhea, scabies, injuries, and otitis media.
The health center also handles admissions, addressing cases that span from pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, and malaria to diarrhea, dysentery, neonatal infections, arthritis, meningitis, tuberculosis, anemia, malnutrition, and others. Referring patients to other facilities poses significant challenges and expenses due to the adverse climate of the region and the high cost of transporting deceased individuals back to their respective places of origin.
“We facilitated a few emergency referrals to Lae, including a breech delivery with obstructed shoulders, where the baby’s arms were raised as the shoulders passed through the mother’s pelvis. Unfortunately, Kerema General Hospital was closed at that time,” Sister Buela explained. She continued, “The mother gave birth to a baby girl mid-flight before reaching Lae’s Angau Memorial Hospital. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Pedro, John Joseph, and Nile for their prompt assistance in purchasing plane tickets, which allowed the patient to return from Lae to Kanabea with her baby.”
The healthcare team at Kanabea Health Center is comprised of Health Extension Officers, a Nursing Officer, Community Health Workers, one Medical Laboratory Technician, and support staff who continue to work tirelessly to address the healthcare needs of the community. “Our biggest worry now is that we want a medical doctor to come and work with us as there are many referrals surgeries that can be done at Kanabea if we had a doctor,” Sr Buela said.
Efforts are currently underway to address these issues and enhance healthcare services in the region. The people of Kanabea and the healthcare staff remain unwavering in their commitment to their life-saving mission, despite the countless challenges they face daily. With concerted efforts, it is hoped that the healthcare system in the Kerema Diocese will continue to progress, ensuring improved access to high-quality healthcare for all its residents.
Community & Diocese Unite to Resolve Ongoing Issues
A team from the Daru-Kiunga Diocese, led by His Excellency Bishop Joseph Durero and Clinical and Programs Coordinator Karl Buia, visited the Kungim Health sub-center to address a series of troubling incidents that occurred from June to July 2023. The Catholic Church Health Services facility has faced multiple challenges, including break-ins, security concerns, and vandalism.
After multiple reports of break-ins, theft, and staff harassment, Bishop Joseph Durero and staff from the CCHS office of Daru-Kiunga diocese traveled for hours by boat and then walked to Kungim to meet with the community and their leaders.
The Kungim HSC staff expressed concerns over their safety, the lack of community support during incidents, and the disrespect shown towards the facility and staff properties. These concerns were addressed during a general meeting with the community on July 15th, where Bishop Joseph Durero emphasized the importance of protecting the Diocesan Health Services’ assets and staff.
During the meeting, the community demanded apologies and compensation from those responsible for the incidents. The councilor paid for the damaged equipment and the stolen fuel. The community also pledged to provide security for female staff and protect the facility and its properties. Bishop Joseph Durero warned that future incidents might lead to the cessation of services.
“I ask the community and leaders to take ownership of all Diocesan services provided at Kungim as this is the final warning if such incidents occur again, we will have no option but to cease providing services here,” Bishop Joseph added.
A resolution was reached with the community apologizing for the stolen goods, compensation for damages, and an agreement to cease harassment of staff and damaging properties. A formal document will be drafted and signed by both the diocese and community leaders to establish a clear protocol for handling future incidents.
Going forward, CCHS and the community, in collaboration with provincial health authorities, district and local-level government, and law enforcement agencies, will look at the establishment of a memorandum of understanding to address future incidents.
VHA Receive Refresher Training at Tarakbits HSC
Seven village health assistants from the Tarakbits Health subcenters underwent a much-needed one-day refresher training, which was organized by the Catholic Church Health Services of Daru Kiunga on July 1, 2023.
Diocesan Health Manager Sister Philomene Sanduku explained that this training was a part of their annual implementation plan to provide refresher training for village health assistants (VHAs). She stated, “Most of these VHAs were volunteers from the Safe Motherhood and Nutrition Program, while others had been active in their villages for several years.”
The initiative was financially supported by Mercy Works Australia and aimed to refresh the skills and knowledge originally acquired during their initial training, tackle the challenges VHAs faced, and devise strategies for future improvements.
The training was facilitated by Sister Philomene and Eddie Marndun, who is the officer in charge of Tarakbits. The VHAs came from different villages within the catchment areas.
The program covered a set of activities, including prayer sessions, sharing experiences, and presentations on topics such as Safe Motherhood, nutrition, and health promotion. VHAs shared their post-training experiences, showcasing a remarkable dedication to implementing the acquired knowledge in their respective communities.
The expected outcomes were largely achieved with the VHAs demonstrating newfound skills and confidence in maintaining Village Health Programs, implementing Safe Motherhood activities, identifying malnourished children, addressing diarrhea causes, and utilizing teamwork in various health-related activities.
Despite the notable progress, VHAs encountered challenges such as the voluntary nature of their ongoing activities, a lack of documentation, and insufficient incentives. However, one of the significant impacts of the program is the improvement of the health indicators within communities.
His Excellency Bishop Joseph Durero who accompanied the team to Tarakbits commended the VHAs saying that their commitment and enthusiasm show that this initiative is important in enhancing community health outcomes.
The Health Manager promised to conduct regular follow-up visits, engage VHAs in additional health programs, continually monitor their activities, and provide incentives to ensure the sustainability of the program.
Callan Hosts Successful Eye Surgery Campaign Conducted
Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) and Kiunga District Hospital partnered with the Fred Hollows Foundation to organize a successful eye surgery campaign that brought renewed hope and vision to the people in Western Province. The eye team from the Fred Hollows Foundation arrived in Kiunga and conducted screenings and surgeries from July 25th to July 29th, 2023.
A dedicated team from the Fred Hollows Foundation conducted screenings and surgeries. The total attendance during the campaign was 238, with 71 adults receiving surgery and 165 individuals undergoing other treatments, including two children. The eye clinic catered to 100 individuals, including 70 adult males, 25 adult females, and five children, highlighting the significant impact of this eye care initiative.
Notably, five patients from the Nomad area, who were on the verge of blindness due to cataracts, were transported by helicopter, chartered by North Fly Member Hon. James Donald, to Kiunga for the surgery. These patients were accommodated at the Callan Resource Center (CRC) and were visibly impaired, often needing to support one another while walking.
A community health worker at the CRC, Cornelius Cosmas, said the importance of organizing annual eye surgery campaigns is to ensure early treatment for people with severe eye problems. “We will also conduct regular eye screenings to identify conditions like cataracts and pterygium and monitor these patients’ conditions so when we get a chance for another such visit, we can refer them,” Cosmas said.
The surgical procedures, which were conducted on patients with bilateral cataracts, proved to be highly successful, as all patients reported significant improvements in their vision. The smiles on their faces showcased the positive impact of this vital medical mission.
Some of the patients had been identified as far back as 2020 during integrated patrols by the staff from Monfort Catholic Mission Urban Clinic, and the arrival of the Eye team was a long-awaited lifeline for them.
In addition to cataract surgeries, patients seeking distance glasses were provided with prescriptions and advised to place orders at the Mt. Sion optical workshop. Several clients received their eyeglasses within a week.
However, some individuals with eye issues missed the opportunity for treatment due to a lack of awareness about the visit. The report also highlighted ongoing challenges such as shortages of eye drops and ready-made distance glasses.
The eye clinic also attended to three children with talipes, who were admitted to Callan Services and regularly received POSETTI treatment. (The Ponseti method is a widely practiced technique for early treatment of infants born with clubfoot.)
CCHS Facilitate Sexual Health Training for NCDPHA
United States Congressman Neal Dunn, representing Florida, paid a visit to the dedicated team at the St. Therese Urban Clinic in Hohola on August 17, 2023, receiving a warm welcome from the hardworking staff. The visit held special significance as St. Therese received essential support from the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), contributing significantly to their achievements in combating HIV and tuberculosis.
St. Therese Clinic stands out as the sole healthcare facility in the city offering integrated services and mental health care for both regular patients and those living with HIV. Health Manager Sr. Geraldine Arua highlighted the recent opening of their Mental Health Clinic and the regular visits by Dr. Uma Ambi to see not only their day-to-day patients but also their HIV clients who face a lot of the stigma and discrimination in the communities they live in.
Congressman Dunn, accompanied by American Samoa Representative Amata Radewagen and other representatives from the US Embassy, expressed his admiration for the vital work carried out by the clinic’s nurses, despite limited resources.
“I believe this clinic should be a model clinic to other urban clinics in the country, as the integration of services is amazing including mental health, you are doing amazing work with the little that you have. This is truly a labor of love.” He spoke.
The National Health Secretary for CCHS, Sr. Jadwiga Faliszek, expressed her gratitude for the distinguished visitors, emphasizing the clinic’s tireless efforts, especially in caring for mothers and children. Congressman Dunn’s visit highlighted his commitment to medical diplomacy and his deep appreciation for the compassionate work being done at St. Therese Urban Clinic.
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