“The program aims to strengthen collaboration and managerial capacity in primary health services, especially at community health centers (puskesmas), which are the frontline of public health,” Rumaropen said after the launch at the Papua Governor’s Office on Friday.
According to Rumaropen, the initiative focuses on enhancing primary health service management at local health centers and lower-level facilities.
“Strengthening basic health services is crucial due to the still-high maternal mortality rates in several areas. Increasing the capacity of health workers at puskesmas is expected to improve service quality for vulnerable groups,” he added.
The program also stressed reproductive health services for women, particularly pregnant women and adolescent girls, allowing for earlier health interventions through primary health facilities.
“By enhancing the capacity of health workers at puskesmas, services for pregnant women, women, and reproductive health can be delivered faster and more effectively,” he said.
He added that Papua Province was chosen as one of the program’s implementation areas, with three regions serving as pilot project sites.
“Moreover, the program is planned to run until 2032 and is expected to expand to other areas in Papua in the next phase,” he said.
He explained that the government expected the program would eventually extend beyond the initial three regions to six more districts, bringing the total coverage to nine areas.
“Strengthening basic health services through this program is also expected to support government efforts to reduce stunting, as maternal and child health services are a key factor in prevention,” he added.
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Translator: Qadri, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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