Madang health facilities get starlink connectivity

The Madang Provincial Health Authority has started rolling out highspeed internet connectivity to its health facilities with the installation of Starlink, thanks to the assistance of the United Nations Population Fund or UNFPA.

The installation of Starlink will improve communication links for all Madang PHA facilities in the six districts and the provincial hospital.

Three district health facilities, including the main provincial hospital were the first to be connected this week.

The first was installed at Gusap, the second at Daigul, then Bunabun and the provincial hospital.

Chief Executive Officer of Madang PHA, Dr Martin Daimen has thanked UNFPA for the assistance, highlighting that communication is one of many other factors that are very important to the delivery of health services.

"For any development to take place, certain factors must be addressed, including communication. For health, it's one of the critical areas, just like water, power, land and human resource. That is why the MaPHA management and board, we've started this pilot project.

"We have successfully installed Starlink at Gusap, Daigul, Bunabun and the provincial hospital without any difficulties with the help of a UNFPA- engaged contractor. The other main focus now is to have solar power installed for those facilities without electricity connectivity," Dr Daimen said.

He added that Starlink is now bridging the geographical terrains of the province. It will make information readily available.

"It will help our nurses and doctors deliver very vital information, skills and knowledge to our health workers in the rural and remote areas when needed, to attend to patients, such as in childbirth," he stated.

Board Chairman of MaPHA, Dr Boga Figa communication has always been one of the board's priorities when they assumed office in 2024.

"When we took office in September of 2024, one of the main agendas I asked about was whether Madang PHA had an ICT plan and that still stands. We can have an ICT policy but what plan will the policy drive. I thank our partners because ICT is one of the board's main agendas.

"I come from an industry background where ICT plays everything, drives everything. You can be here and be connected to Bogia or even Moresby.

"ICT makes sure everything is controlled, monitored, including standards. I have visited hospitals in advanced economies where information is readily available at the fingertips. This program will enable our patients and health workers even in the very remotest locations to communicate with doctors and nurses at the main hospital," Dr Figa said.

Figa assured the program has the board's full backing to make sure it reaches all corners of Madang Province.

On behalf of the Madang Provincial Administration, John Sigara, Director Planning applauded UNFPA for stepping in to assist MaPHA improve communication accessibility with the rural health facilities throughout the province.