A newly funded state-of-the-art hospital in Kiribati is set to enhance healthcare facilities for approximately 63,000 residents of South Tarawa, especially focusing on women and infants. Supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) with a contribution of $27 million, the Betio Hospital will emphasize improvements in sexual and reproductive health services.
ADB’s Pacific Subregional Office Regional Director, Aaron Batten, emphasized the urgent need for training and upskilling more healthcare workers in areas such as primary health care, maternity care, and obstetrics. This is critical for addressing the healthcare demands of the community effectively.
The hospital’s strategic location, being built on higher ground more inland, is a vital adaptation for climate resilience, thus ensuring the long-term sustainability of its facilities. It will offer comprehensive services, including emergency care, inpatient wards, outpatient services, surgical facilities, and specialized health support services encompassing dental and eye care.
This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts across the Pacific to enhance healthcare access and infrastructure. Similar projects, such as the redevelopment of hospitals in Fiji under international collaboration, highlight a regional commitment to bolster healthcare services in response to growing healthcare needs, particularly in the face of climate challenges and evolving demographics.
This new development in Kiribati is a testament to the resilience and proactive measures being undertaken in the region to improve public health outcomes, offering hope for a healthier future for its communities.
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