New operating theatre and ward to boost obstetrics care at ANGAU Hospital

New operating theatre and ward to boost obstetrics care at ANGAU Hospital

Health care for the people of Morobe Province, especially mothers and babies, has received a major boost with the opening of a new operating theatre and 20-bed ward at the ANGAU Hospital in Lae.

The hospital registers an estimated 900 births per month and the new facilities will cater for caesareans and other maternal services, ensuring that women and children receive the best obstetrics care possible.

Speaking at the opening of the K4 million facilities, Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Bruce Davis, said Australia, through its partnership with Papua New Guinea is committed to better health care for all Papua New Guinea citizens.

“The new facilities are part of the first phase of Australia’s $207 million commitment to the redevelopment of ANGAU Hospital.

“ANGAU is the most important hospital for the Momase region and I am pleased with the progress of works on the redevelopment so far,” Mr Davis said.

The new theatre includes a recovery area for patients, staff and patient changing ablution facilities, a nurse’s station and sterilisation rooms; while the ward is equipped with patient beds, tables and chairs, toilets and showers and staff facilities.

ANGAU Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chris Kenyhercz, thanked the Australian Government for the ongoing support to the Hospital.

“The new operating theatre and ward will add some much needed capacity and allow more patients to be treated at the Hospital,” Dr Kenyhercz said.

The first phase of redevelopment works at ANGAU hospital is well underway and a range of other infrastructure upgrades are ongoing.

This also includes Australia’s support to the Gware Wing refurbishment, the recent procurement of K2 million in essential medical equipment and supplies, substantial ground and electrical upgrades, a new dental clinic at the hospital and refurbishment works at the Lae School of Nursing.

The Australian Government is working in partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea to redevelop ANGAU hospital as part of its ongoing bilateral development cooperation program with Papua New Guinea.

For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100

Australian High Commissioner Bruce Davis, National Department of Health Secretary Pascoe Kase and other guests at the opening ceremony.