The people of Madang Province now have access to family planning services following the launch of Marie Stopes PNG’s (MSPNG) Madang Outreach Programme in March.
The programme will help improve reproductive and health services in the province through a joint service delivery partnership between MSPNG, Madang Provincial Health Office and Modilon General Hospital. Family planning is an effective preventative measure in reducing maternal and child health complications and deaths, and improves the lives and health of women, men and families.
The Australian Government is providing A$23 million (PGK56 million) to Marie Stopes PNG to support the roll-out of family planning services across Papua New Guinea, including in Madang.
Modilon General Hospital has welcomed the support of MSPNG in engaging a specialist family planning nurse who will provide post-partum family planning at the hospital’s post-natal ward.
This approach allows women who have delivered their babies to access family planning information and advice.
Speaking during the opening of the MSPNG Madang Outreach Programme, Deputy Director of Medical Services Dr. John Kiap encouraged all health workers be diligent and treat all clients equally when they seek family planning support.
“Health workers have a responsibility to carry out their duties diligently as supported by the family planning policy to provide friendly information and services to all.”
Also speaking at the ceremony was Markus Kachau, Acting Director Madang Provincial Health.
Mr. Kachau welcomed MSPNG, stating that the launch was a momentous occasion.
“The people of Madang will greatly benefit from these services. This has all been made possible through partnerships”.
He acknowledged support from partners within the province and encouraged all to work together to help promote health.
“I would like to acknowledge Marie Stopes PNG, the PNG Government and the Australian Government to ensure that family planning services are made available to the people of Madang.”
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100
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From left to right: John Kiap, Director Medical Services Modilon General Hospital, Paul Mabong, Acting Director Madang Provincial Health, Jaqueline Herbert, Second Secretary Health Australian High Commission, Bernadette Yakopa, MSPNG Madang Province Manager, Malmee Weerasiri, MSPNG Country Director, Loretta Bele MSPNG Regional Manager Momase/NGI and Markus Kachau, Acting Director Madang Provincial Administration.