As Vanuatu National Hospital (VNH) celebrates its 50-year milestone, health officials and experts emphasized the importance of decentralising quality, inclusive palliative and health services to bring care closer to communities across the country.
The panel discussion, hosted by Mr. Kali Amaera, Country Director of the Burnett Institute, explored the government’s vision and policies for decentralisation, highlighting opportunities for both public and private sector involvement in expanding health service delivery.
VNH’s Milestone and Vision
Director-General of the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Sherly Tokon, opened the discussion by thanking the public for participating in yesterday’s 50-year jubilee parade. She noted that following the Prime Minister’s recent speech, the hospital’s new designation as “Vanuatu National Hospital” reflects its growing capacity to handle complex services and surgeries.
“While our hospital has achieved much with 86 doctors and nurses, the real potential often goes unseen. Decentralisation ensures that serious cases are treated at VNH, while other basic and non-communicable disease services can expand into Freswota and other provincial hubs,” Tokon said.
Challenges of Decentralisation
According to panelists, decentralisation involves more than relocating services it includes addressing infrastructure gaps, workforce limitations, and governance issues. Mr. Morris Amos, Chairman of the Health Decentralisation Committee and Shefa Provincial Administrator, explained that provincial facilities often struggle to meet population needs.
“Access to remote areas remains a challenge, and health often isn’t prioritized until illness becomes severe. Governance structures are unclear, and outreach services are limited,” Amos said. “We must ensure every area has access to basic services while building resilient and accountable systems.”
Voices from the Frontline
Intern doctor John Ala highlighted the challenges faced by young medical professionals in provincial hospitals. He stressed the need for mentorship, adequate equipment, and sustainable staffing plans tailored to provincial needs. “With limited resources, a good team and proper guidance are essential to deliver effective care,” Ala said.
Mr. Alex Pheu, a practice nurse from a private health provider, emphasized the role of private partners in supporting government efforts. “We step in where government services are limited, providing backup support and referrals to VNH when needed,” Pheu said.
Looking Ahead
Panelists concluded that while decentralisation is a gradual process, its success depends on investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and governance. Bringing services closer to communities will ensure that the growing population has access to timely, quality health care while maintaining the high standards of Vanuatu National Hospital.
