Majuro, Marshall Islands – This week, the Ministry of Health & Human Services (MoHHS) joins in the celebration of National Radiologic Week, honoring the critical work of our Radiologic Technologists (Rad Techs). This week-long celebration recognizes the vital role Rad Techs play in healthcare by capturing the unseen, ensuring patient safety, and providing expert insight through diagnostic imaging.

“Our RAD TECHS are truly the unsung heroes of healthcare. Their expertise and dedication to precision in diagnostic imaging are essential to providing the best care for our patients,” said Secretary Francyne Wase-Jacklick. “We are grateful for their skill and care, which directly contribute to better health outcomes across the Marshall Islands.”

As part of the week's festivities, the Ministry is excited to announce the conclusion of National Radiologic Week with a special Radiology Training session with JICA. This training will focus on the long-overdue installation of a C-arm, a critical piece of equipment that will further enhance the Ministry’s diagnostic capabilities and improve patient care across the RMI.

“This C-arm installation is a significant milestone for our radiology team and the Ministry of Health. It’s an investment in both our healthcare infrastructure and our ability to provide timely and accurate diagnoses,” said Dr. Robert Maddison, Medical Chief of Staff. “We look forward to the continued growth of our radiology team and the impact this training will have on patient care moving forward.”

The Ministry would like to extend a special thank you to the Government of Japan and JICA for their ongoing commitment to supporting healthcare development in the Marshall Islands. Their assistance and partnership are invaluable in building a stronger, healthier future for the people of the RMI.

The Ministry of Health & Human Services extends its heartfelt appreciation to all Radiologic Technologists for their dedication and expertise, and looks forward to continuing to support their growth and advancement in the field of radiology.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SAMHSA Leaders Visit the Republic of the Marshall Islands: Highlighting Progress in Grant Reinstatement and Collaborative Engagements

Majuro, Marshall Islands – The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) recently welcomed a high-level delegation from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), led by Captain Emily Williams and Tom Coderre, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS). Their visit marks a significant step in strengthening collaborative efforts to enhance mental health and substance abuse services within the RMI.

During their stay, the SAMHSA leaders met with health officials from the RMI, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Finance. The discussions focused on the progress made by the RMI team in fulfilling the necessary requirements for the reinstatement of SAMHSA grant funding, which plays a crucial role in supporting mental health initiatives across the islands.

Key highlights from the visit included:

• Progress on Grant Requirements: The RMI team showcased the steps taken to meet SAMHSA's requirements, demonstrating a commitment to improving mental health services and ensuring sustainable funding for essential programs.

• Programmatic Dialogue: The meetings facilitated productive conversations about the current state of mental health and substance abuse programs in the RMI. Officials discussed challenges, successes, and future initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of residents.

• Client Engagements: The delegation engaged directly with local clients, gaining insights into their experiences and the impact of mental health services in the community. This engagement underscored the importance of client-centered approaches in shaping effective mental health strategies.

Captain Emily Williams expressed her appreciation for the RMI's dedication to mental health services, stating, "We are impressed by the progress made by the RMI team and their commitment to addressing the challenges of mental health and substance use. This visit reinforces our partnership and shared goal of improving the lives of individuals and families in the Marshall Islands."

Tom Coderre emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration, saying, "Together, we can create a supportive environment that fosters recovery and resilience for those in need. Our continued partnership with the RMI is vital to achieving these objectives."

The visit concluded with a commitment from both SAMHSA and RMI officials to maintain open lines of communication and work collaboratively toward reinstating the SAMHSA grant, ensuring the sustainability of mental health services for the Marshallese community.

For more information about SAMHSA's initiatives in the Republic of the Marshall Islands,
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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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EBEYE CELEBRATES 2024 BREAST CANCER MONTH

On 31st of October, Ebeye CHC gathered to celebrate an important event of Breast Cancer Awareness Month that was held at Leiroj Kitlang Kabua Memorial Hospital, in Ebeye.

This marks a significant occasion to commemorate all the victims and all those who have fought breast cancer throughout the world, including the RMI. Early detection and prompt treatment is crucial, therefore, we highly encouraged all women and girls to get cancer screened.

: Dr. Cho Cho Thein

#Breastcancerawarenessmonth2024

#showyoucarebeaware

For Immediate Release

October 30, 2024

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GAINS A LOCAL MARSHALLESE DOCTOR: DR. DELSON BENJAMIN GRADUATES FROM MEDICAL INTERNSHIP TRAINING PROGRAM

Majuro, MH – Yesterday, the ministry celebrated the 5th Graduation Ceremony of its Medical Internship Training Program, recognizing the dedication of its newest physicians and honoring Dr. Delson Benjamin, the program’s 12th graduate Marshallese doctor from Ishou University. The event gathered distinguished officials, community members, and families to honor the graduates’ commitment to health service and Dr. Benjamin’s remarkable journey from nursing to medicine.

Secretary Francyne Wase-Jacklick opened the ceremony with a tribute to Dr. Benjamin’s dedication and the powerful Marshallese values he embodies. “Today, we gather to honor Dr. Benjamin’s hard work and the bright future of service he represents for our community,” she said. “Delson, as you step forward, remember our proverb, ‘Jouj Eo Mour Eo’—‘Kindness Begets Life.’ In the Marshallese concept of reciprocity, jouj, or kindness, is what living is about, a selfless commitment to keeping family and community safe. Your journey brings this principle to life, and we know you’ll carry it forward with humility and dedication.”

His Excellency Ambassador Steve C. Hsia of the Republic of China (Taiwan) also shared remarks, reflecting on the strong partnership between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands in healthcare. “Taiwan remains committed to helping build a resilient healthcare system in the Marshall Islands,” he stated. “This graduation represents the success that collaboration can bring in training professionals who will meet the health needs of this community.” Ambassador Hsia congratulated Dr. Benjamin, saying, “Dr. Benjamin’s journey stands as a beacon of perseverance and shared dedication to healthcare for all.”

The ceremony featured the issuance of physician licenses by Dr. Zachraias Zachraias, Chairperson of the Board of Licenses, followed by a White Robe Ceremony led by Chief of Staff Dr. Robert Maddison. This was a significant rite of passage for the graduates, marking their transition into professional medical practice. Dr. Ivy Lapidez, Chair of the Medical Education Committee, led the graduates in the Hippocratic Oath, underscoring their commitment to ethical and compassionate care.
The Ministry also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Taiwan Health Center and Shuang Ho Hospital for their strong collaboration and invaluable support in the training and development of healthcare professionals in the Marshall Islands.

In his closing speech, Dr. Benjamin expressed his gratitude, stating, “Today is not just a celebration of my achievement but of the collective effort of everyone who supported me on this journey. I am honored to serve our community and carry forward the values of kindness and compassion that are at the heart of our Marshallese culture.”

Secretary Wase-Jacklick also emphasized the enduring legacy of the late Dr. Kennar Briand, whose vision and commitment were instrumental in establishing the program that has fostered the next generation of healthcare leaders. The Ministry extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Benjamin and all graduates and thanks the community, families, and partners for their support in making this program a success.

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