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In August 2008, Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) approved the funding of the North Fly Health Services Development Program (NFHSDP) – a K20 million(AU $8.42 million), 5-year partnership for a health program focused on strengthening health services in North Fly District of Western Province.
NFHSDP commenced in January 2009. Key partners are OTML, Ok Tedi Development Foundation, Evangelical Church of Papua New Guinea, Catholic Health Services, Provincial Government, North Fly District Government and local level Governments. In addition, a number of other key stakeholders are supporting and collaborating with NFHSDP, including ADI. JTA International is the Implementation Partner and is responsible for overall program coordination.
Strong, early collaboration among key partners and stakeholders as they work together to strengthen health services in North Fly is improving the coordination and planning of health service delivery. Early achievements have included the distribution of essential medical supplies such as antibiotics, general medicines, catheters, oxygen, intravenous fluids, and medical instruments to remote facilities in Olsobip, Golobip, Nomad and Bolobip. NFHSDP mobilised the necessary resources to support the government in tackling the transport and organisational challenges faced when supporting the more remote facilities.
Further achievements have included improved supply of vaccines, transport, cold chain repairs, basic infrastructure repairs (toilets, taps, pumps, water and sanitation) and funding for Maternal Child Health (MCH) patrols and health promotion campaigns. Health service providers have formed smaller working groups with specific focus areas such as malaria, STIs, HIV and AIDS, TB and logistics to foster better coordination and planning.
In collaboration with the National Department of Health National Health Radio Network Team, NFHSDP is upgrading health radios in prioritised health centres and aid posts. Training in radio use and maintenance will be provided.
In addition, 2009 has seen the NFHSDP team complete a comprehensive baseline survey of existing health facilities and services. The survey team trekked the length and breadth of the district, visiting more than 40 facilities. Data collected will be shared among all partners and inform NFHSDP planning for 2010.
ADI is committed to cooperating with NFHSDP and actively participates in relevant committees and meetings. We share patrol information and actively work to communicate openly with NFHSDP and all relevant stakeholders. While the primary aim of NFHSDP is to improve health services in North Fly, it also provides an opportunity for health service providers to improve their ability to operate effectively in a challenging environment. Most importantly, the communities of North Fly District will benefit from improved health services.
- Lisa Ritchie, JTA International
Pictured above: North Fly District Health Manager, Mr. John Lari (centre), talking with Kiunga Hospital CEO and surgeon Dr. Sr. Joseph (right) and North Fly Health Services Development Program Implementation Manager, Mr. Kelly Kewa (left).
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