Ho’owalia aidpost receives new ambulance, push for upgrade

After years without proper patient transport, the Ho'owalia Aidpost in Sagarai Valley, Alotau District, has finally received an ambulance, a lifeline for the rural community.

The vehicle, delivered over the weekend through the support of the National Catholic Church Health Services, will serve as a critical referral link for one of 12 health facilities under the Milne Bay Catholic Health Agency.

Sister-in-Charge Meisy Kalivakoyo said the aidpost had long struggled without an ambulance, and the new support would allow staff to better respond to emergencies and save lives.

At the same time, the Catholic Church is lobbying for Ho'owalia’s elevation from a Level 1 facility to a Level 2 Community Health Post. The decision now rests with the Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority.

Health advocates say the new ambulance and the proposed upgrade are vital steps toward bridging service gaps in one of Milne Bay’s most remote valleys.