MINISTER for Health, Hon. Dr Billy Joseph, has welcomed the Prime Minister s directive to strengthen accountability across the public sector and says the health sector will use the opportunity to reinforce the governance and performance of Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs).
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement regarding compliance with Anual Management Report requirements, the Minister has written to all Provincial Health Authority Boards requesting additional information on the performance of their organisations, ncluding governance, financial management, service delivery and progress against key health indicators.
Minister Joseph said Annual Management Reports were an important accountability mechanism but should not be viewed simply as an administrative compliance exercise.
“Provincial Health Authority Boards are responsible for the governance, financial oversight and performance of their Provincial Health Authorities, and ultimately for ensuring better health services are delivered to the people of Papua New Guinea.”
The Minister said the additional information requested from Boards would provide a more comprehensive assessment of organisational performance and the actions Boards were taking to address areas of concern and improve health outcomes.
“The information provided by Boards will inform my assessment of their performance and any future decisions Imake ‘under the Provincial Health Authorities Act 2007. Where Boards are providing effective leadership and oversight, they will continue to receive our full support. Where they are not meeting their responsibilities, will not hesitate to take action in accordance with the law.”
Minister Joseph said strengthening governance and accountability remained central to improving health services across Papua New Guinea.
“This is not simply about reports. It is about ensuring every Provincial Health Authority Board is exercising its responsibilities effectively so that our hospitals, health centres and frontline health services deliver the quality of care our people deserve.”