The spread of viruses like pink eye, chikungunya and now the threat of Ebola were on the agenda during the Health Sector Forum yesterday.
Held at the Samoa Convention Centre at Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi building, the Forum was part of the Healthy Lifestyle Week being commemorated this week.
At the Forum, health stakeholders are discussing challenges, sharing ideas and approaches to tackle many viruses and diseases the country is confronted by.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Health, Tuitama Dr. Talalelei Tuitama reminded that “health is everyone’s business."
Tuitama said partnerships are needed to confront the countless health challenges of today.
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“I would like to comment briefly on some of the challenges we faced this year, the pink eye disease, chikungunya, and now the looming threat of Ebola,” said the Minister.
“These have provided challenges to a health system that is already burdened by increased instances of NCDS (non-communicable diseases)."
“Given many challenges we face, it is vital now more than ever that we address these together as a sector with support of non sector partners and donor partners.”
“For us in the sector, we have a responsibility to ensure that the services we provide is competent, accessible and meet the needs of the public.”
The Minister said the Health Forum presents an opportunity to look back and reflect on the challenges and the achievements of the Health sector.
“These forums are a vital part of the development process,” he said. “They provide opportunities for sectors and partners to come together through frank dialogue and shared issues and challenges as we approach the end of the year."
“It is through this process that we can work together to rethink and adjust our approaches and address issues and challenges in order to provide a platform to further transform Samoa’s health sector.”
Tuitama also congratulated health workers.
“Although we continue to face many challenges in health we must also remember that we have many achievements,” said the Minister. “We should be confident that we in the health sector have proven our resilience and commitment to our public and our course."
Issues discussed include: Health and Food safety, health and education, health and environment and health service and provision and Human Resources for Health.
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