March 4, 2024

Majuro, Marshall Islands - The Pacific Behavioral Health Collaborating Council (PBHCC) proudly convened its inaugural meeting today in Majuro, Marshall Islands, marking a significant milestone in regional mental health advocacy and collaboration. Led by esteemed figures including Miss Marshall Islands and Mental Health Ambassador, Ms. Claret Chong Gum, the event witnessed a powerful display of commitment and partnership towards addressing behavioral health challenges across the Pacific.

The meeting commenced with a vibrant energy booster health ice breaker facilitated by the Women of KIJLE Club, Lydia and Neiar, setting an uplifting tone for the proceedings. Pastor Biwij John offered an opening prayer, invoking blessings for collective wisdom and resilience.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Honorable Ladie Jack, Mayor of Majuro Atoll Local Government, who extended wholehearted support for mental health and substance abuse initiatives within the region. Highlighting ongoing efforts, Mayor Jack emphasized the critical role of collaboration in fostering holistic community well-being.

Captain Emily Williams, Regional Director for Region 9 SAMSHA, lauded the advocacy efforts of Miss Marshall Islands, acknowledging her significant contribution to raising awareness on mental health issues. Captain Williams commended the dedication of Dr. Holden, Director Stacy, and the unwavering support of Minister Ota and Secretary Francyne towards advancing mental health initiatives in the Marshall Islands.
Ms. Reyna Saures, President of PBHCC, eloquently illustrated the essence of collaboration through the metaphor of food such as Coconut & Fish, emphasizing its indispensable role in nurturing partnerships and program development. Her insightful remarks underscored the importance of cultural elements in shaping collective endeavors.

Honorable Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Ota Kisino, delivered a poignant keynote address, reflecting on the historical significance of the 70th anniversary of the victims and survivors of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands. Minister Kisino reaffirmed the theme "Kumiti Ejmour" - Health is a shared responsibility, underscoring the imperative of collective action in addressing behavioral health challenges.
As participants embark on deliberations, Minister Kisino urged for a weaving of cultural heritage into discussions, enriching dialogue and fostering greater understanding and collaboration.

The Pacific Behavioral Health Collaborating Council stands as a beacon of hope and unity, dedicated to enhancing mental health outcomes and well-being across the Pacific region. Together, through shared responsibility and collaboration, we strive towards a brighter future for all.

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COURTESY VISIT OF UNICEF NORTH PACIFIC PROGRAM LEADS: UNICEF’S DEPUTY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE PACIFIC MULTI-COUNTRY OFFICE, MRS. ROSHNI BASU

Majuro, MH – UNICEF's Deputy Representative of the Pacific Multi-country Office, Mrs. Roshni Basu, embarked on a courtesy visit to the Republic of Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia from February 16th to 20th, 2024. The visit aimed to foster collaboration and explore avenues for addressing pressing issues affecting the North Pacific region.

During her visit, Mrs. Basu engaged with key ministerial counterparts from the North Pacific countries, including the Republic of Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. The primary objective was to gain insight into the current priorities and existing gaps within these nations. Through meaningful dialogue, Mrs. Basu sought to identify opportunities for UNICEF to offer assistance and support in addressing these critical challenges.

Furthermore, the visit provided an opportunity for Mrs. Basu to engage with potential donor agencies in the North Pacific countries. By fostering partnerships and exploring avenues for resource mobilization, UNICEF aims to bolster its efforts in addressing the pressing needs of the region.

Mrs. Basu also took the opportunity to oversee and provide necessary guidance on ongoing UNICEF supports in the North Pacific countries. By ensuring effective implementation and coordination of existing initiatives, UNICEF remains committed to delivering impactful programs that benefit children and families across the region.

Reflecting on her visit, Mrs. Basu remarked, "The North Pacific region faces unique challenges that require collaborative and innovative solutions. Through partnerships with governments, donors, and local communities, UNICEF is committed to addressing the needs of children and promoting their rights in the region."

The courtesy visit of Mrs. Roshni Basu underscores UNICEF's steadfast commitment to advancing the well-being and rights of children in the North Pacific region. As UNICEF continues to work closely with its partners, it remains dedicated to building a brighter and more inclusive future for all children.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Majuro Atoll, 13 February 2024: The Ministry of Health & Human Services (MOHHS) in Majuro Atoll extends its profound gratitude to Canvasback Wellness Center Ophthalmology Mission and Support Services for the successful completion of a transformative healthcare initiative. This collaborative effort has not only enhanced medical services but also marked significant milestones in ophthalmic care within the Marshall Islands.

During the mission, the dedicated team of medical professionals from Canvasback Ophthalmology Mission and Support Services provided comprehensive eye care services to the local community. Over the course of the 2-week mission, more than 400 patients received expert medical attention, with 192 surgeries performed to restore vision and improve eye health.

Of particular note, the mission achieved a historic moment with the completion of two groundbreaking corneal transplant surgeries, marking the first-ever procedures of their kind in the Marshall Islands. These surgeries represent a significant advancement in ophthalmic care for the region and underscore the commitment to excellence and innovation demonstrated by the collaborating parties.

The Ministry of Health & Human Services acknowledges the invaluable support and unwavering dedication of CEO Jacque Spence, whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in facilitating this partnership. Ms. Spence's steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare initiatives has significantly contributed to the improvement of medical services in the region.

The successful completion of the Canvasback Missions Ophthalmology Mission and Support Services underscores the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing critical healthcare needs.

The Ministry of Health & Human Services looks forward to continued engagement with Canvasback Mission and other stakeholders to further enhance healthcare delivery and improve the well-being of the people of the Marshall Islands.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Majuro, Marshall Islands – 02 February 2024

MAJURO HOSPITAL UNVEILS STATE-OF-THE-ART OXYGEN PLANT SUPPORTED BY REPUBLIC OF CHINA (ROC) TAIWAN

Ministry of Health & Human Services-Majuro Hospital, in collaboration with the Republic of China (ROC) Taiwan, proudly announces the grand opening and blessing of its groundbreaking Oxygen Plant. This transformative project marks a significant milestone in healthcare infrastructure development in the Marshall Islands, promising to revolutionize patient care and medical services across the nation.

The idea for the Oxygen Plant was conceived in May 2023, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality. Following months of meticulous planning and preparation, the project broke ground in November 2023, propelled by the vision of improving healthcare delivery for all Marshall Islanders. After dedicated efforts from a multitude of stakeholders, the Oxygen Plant was successfully completed last week, underscoring the power of collaboration and determination.

Central to the significance of this milestone is the innovative approach to patient care it represents. Unlike traditional methods that rely on manual delivery of oxygen tanks, the Oxygen Plant introduces a sophisticated wall system, allowing patients to receive oxygen directly. This streamlined process not only enhances efficiency but also ensures prompt and seamless access to life-saving treatment.

The establishment of the Oxygen Plant exemplifies the strong partnership between Majuro Hospital and the Republic of China (ROC) Taiwan. The generous support and unwavering commitment of the ROC Taiwan have been instrumental in bringing this transformative project to fruition. Their vision and dedication to improving healthcare outcomes have left an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape of the Marshall Islands.

"We are thrilled to unveil the Oxygen Plant, a testament to our shared commitment to advancing healthcare excellence," remarked Secretary Francyne Wase-Jacklick. "This groundbreaking facility not only symbolizes innovation and progress but also underscores our unwavering dedication to ensuring the well-being of every individual in our community."

As the Marshall Islands embark on a new chapter in healthcare delivery, the opening of the Oxygen Plant stands as a beacon of hope and healing. It reaffirms our collective resolve to embrace innovation, foster collaboration, and prioritize the health and welfare of our people.

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For Immediate Release

15.Nov.2023

Manila, Philippines

On the 23rd to 25th of October, The Climate Change and Health Team traveled to Manila, PI, to discuss the early results of the second phase of the CHIVA tool. Mr. Nathan Karben presented the very early findings and said that the team has worked together to compile possible interventions for 1. Staff 2. Waste and WASH management 3. Energy and 4. Infrastructure. We await new findings when the second assessment is conducted once the assessment has been inputted with more local context.

Early findings were presented to the Member States Technical Consultation on Climate Change, The Environment and health with a focus on Health Care Facilities (CCE), along with members of the Temporary Advisory Group (TAG) which included PIHOA Executive Director from Mili Atoll Ms. Emi Chutaro.

-Kajin Majel-

Kumi eo an Ukoktak in Mejatoto im Ejmour ilo Manila, Philippines:

Ilo kar Okotoba 23 – 25 raan eo, Kumi in Ukokak in Mejatoto ilo Jikin Ejmour rekar ilok nan Manila ilo Philippines, nan aer tin kenono ikijjen tobrak in jerbal ko rokar bok jikin ikijjen mwenan kein karuo eo an CHIVA tool. Ilo ien kweilok in, Mr. Nathan Karben ekar kalikkar ta ko rekar komani im loi, im aer kar jerbal ippen rijerbal ro nan bok bunton makitkit im elewetak ikijjen 1. Staff ak rijerbal eo 2. karreo 3. kajoor im 4. Ikijjen imoko ak jikin takto ko. Jelikkun monono ilo ad kottar ta ko rekaal renaj maron loi ilo mottan in kein karuo ilo ekkatak in elanne enaj dedelok aer kadelon melele ko an jikin ko.

Men ko rekar maron loi imaantata rokar jaakimaanlok nan ro iuwaan Member States Consultation kon Climate Change, douluul eo an Environmental (Pelaak ko) kab Health (Ejmour) ilo aer kalikkar jikin takto ko (CCE), kobalok ippen ro iuwaan douluul eo naetan Temporary Advisory Group (TAG) ekoba PIHOA Executive Director, Ms. Emi Chutaro, jen Mili Atoll.

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