31 October 2024

 

MOHHS TAKES A STAND AGAINST TRANSNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME TO PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH

 

Majuro, MH — The Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHHS) recently joined a national workshop on Transnational Organized Crime, underscoring its commitment to addressing public health threats posed by cross-border criminal activities. Led by Dr. Frank Underwood, Public Health Medical Director of MoHHS, the workshop provided key insights into the unique intersections between organized crime and health in the RMI.

 

Dr. Underwood presented an in-depth report and emphasized the pressing need for awareness and action against the harmful impacts of transnational crimes on public health in the RMI.

 

As he outlined, the scope of transnational crime affecting public health in the Republic includes various critical issues, starting with the trafficking of counterfeit medications. Counterfeit drugs present a grave risk to public safety and hinder effective treatment outcomes, leaving patients vulnerable and eroding confidence in healthcare. Dr. Underwood explained that addressing this issue is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the healthcare system in the RMI.

 

The workshop also explored regional trends in drug trafficking, highlighting the surge in illicit drug availability within the Marshall Islands. These drugs, often linked to organized crime networks, pose a growing threat to the health and safety of communities. The MoHHS emphasized the importance of collaborative actions to disrupt these activities and prevent their influence on the country’s youth and families.

 

Alongside these drug-related concerns, Dr. Underwood stressed the connection between organized crime and the spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). He noted that coordinated public health responses are essential to reducing infection rates and mitigating the harm caused by organized crime within vulnerable communities.

 

The trafficking and accessibility of tobacco and alcohol were additional focal points, as these substances continue to have long-term effects on the health of RMI residents. Dr. Underwood stressed the importance of targeted public health interventions to address the negative impact of tobacco and alcohol abuse, which is often fueled by transnational trafficking.

 

The workshop also addressed the intersection between organized crime and mental health, particularly through the lens of forensic psychiatry. Dr. Underwood explained that the mental health consequences for individuals impacted by organized crime are often overlooked, yet they require specialized services and support. He discussed the need for enhanced forensic psychiatry resources to provide proper care and support for affected individuals within the justice system.

 

Lastly, Dr. Underwood reiterated the essential role of MoHHS in combating transnational organized crime. As he explained, the Ministry is committed to implementing health initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and strengthening coordination with law enforcement and national partners to prevent and address these challenges effectively.

 

“This workshop marks a significant step in addressing how organized crime impacts our national health,” said Dr. Frank Underwood. “The MoHHS is committed to protecting the health and safety of the people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands by standing firm against transnational crime and enhancing collaborative prevention and intervention efforts.”

 

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