Health Permanent Secretary Dr Tenneth Dalipanda says the recent stabbing of a nurse at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) is a concern and serious security risk for the health workers.
“This is a serious matter of concern that needs urgent solution,” said Dr Dalipanda.
The Permanent Secretary was responding to a media comment made by NRH Director Nursing, Selwyn Hou.
He said the hospital executive needs to come up with an immediate propose plan on the issue at hand.
“We cannot drag this too long, putting life of our health workers and patients at risk.
“The Ministry is not taking this problem lightly and wants a report of recommendations on this issue from the NRH executive submitted by end this week,” urged the Permanent Secretary.
“Sooner the better, so we can resolute to finding solution to the problem.
“Recommendations of course will help the Mministry identify whether it is budgeted for or additional funds is needed.
“Important to consider also is, the nature of security issue at the hospital. Whether to contract out for private security firms or remain with current security employees.”
He explained that the current security arrangement from his understanding is officers are employed as government workers.
“We are hoping this will also work out and security at the National Referral Hospital can be contracted out to private security firms.
“This is the case for the Ministry head office and the health storage at Ranadi; whilst the hospital daily operations including security are the NRH executive’s responsibility,” clarified PS Dalipanda.
He said the Ministry on such issue can act on recommendation from the hospital’s executive.
NRH CEO, Dr Steve Aumanu was contacted but responded; “I have just arrived from overseas and yet to be briefed on the issue.”
By BRADFORD THEONOMI
