IN a significant stride towards enhancing healthcare provisions in the Nipa Kutubu District, Dr Siaelo Panta has arrived in Nipa to take the helm at the Nipa District Hospital.
Originally hailing from Misima, Samarai Murua in Milne Bay, Dr Panta’s arrival has been eagerly anticipated by the community, as he brings with him a wealth of expertise and a Masters in Rural Medicine from the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Prior to accepting this new role, Dr Panta has been diligently serving at the Misima District Hospital, showcasing a strong dedication to rural healthcare. The absence of a medical doctor at the Nipa District Hospital for nearly a decade had left the community reliant on Health Extension Officers (HEOs) and nurses. However, this void has now been addressed with Dr Panta’s appointment.
Welcoming Dr Panta on behalf of the District Development Authority (NKDDA), District Planner, and community leader Robin Tuna expressed their gratitude and echoed the sentiments of the Southern Highlands Provincial Government, emphasising the critical need for a medical doctor at Nipa District Hospital. They noted the stark disparity between the current doctor-to-population ratio of 1:24,000,00 and the global standard requirement of 1 doctor to 1000 people.
Expressing his deep commitment to serving the community, Dr Panta emphasised that he was there to serve God’s people wherever they may be.
He highlighted the importance of fostering effective communication and collaboration between the hospital and various stakeholders, including the Southern Highlands Provincial Health Authority (SHPHA), NKDDA, MP, Governor, and the Southern Highlands Provincial Government (SHPG).
Dr Panta’s immediate focus is on transforming Nipa District Hospital into a fully functional level 4 district hospital, with future plans to extend improvements to Pimaga District Hospital, all in close coordination with Southern Highland Provincial Health Authority.
The gesture of providing a new V8 Landcruiser Toyota 10 seater to Dr Panta for 24-hour use demonstrates the community’s dedication to supporting his crucial role. Additionally, efforts are underway to equip the Nipa Town urbanisation project with a brand new excavator and 6 Tonne dump trucks, further enhancing the region’s infrastructure.
In closing, MP Dr Billy Joseph, called upon the citizens to unite in the pursuit of collective dream to establish Nipa town as a major service center in the Western end of SHP, transcending political differences and other personal interests.
