By WASITA ROYAL
Surgical services at the Rabaul Provincial Hospital resumed this week following the successful repair of a non-functioning anesthetic machine, ending a month long shutdown of the operating theatre.
Hospital management confirmed that the theatre is now open for all cases, with emergency procedures being given priority. Patients whose non-emergency surgeries were postponed during the closure will also be attended to as the hospital works through the backlog.
The reopening comes after hospital staff managed to operationalize one of the facility’s idle anesthetic machines over the past month. Officials say the province expects to have three functioning anesthetic machines by the third quarter of this year, with one unit already purchased by the hospital and another currently being procured by the Health Department.
In a statement, the hospital management extended its appreciation to staff from Rabaul Provincial Hospital, St Mary’s Hospital in Vunapope, and rural health facilities for their commitment and sacrifices during the shutdown period.
Management also thanked the general public for their patience and understanding, and wished the community a happy Easter celebration.