New x-ray machine to boost NCDPHA’s efforts in combating TB

Thursday, 3 April 2025, 5:10 pm

NDoH’s Acting Secretary for Public Health, Ken Wai handing over the machine to NCDPHA Acting CEO Dr Robin Oge. (Image: Supplied)

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority [NCDPHA] has received a generous donation from the National Department of Health, to help its course against combating tuberculosis disease in Port Moresby.

With support from various donor agencies, NDoH has provided a state-of-the-art, AI-driven portable X-ray machine valued at over K300,000, to assist in the fight against TB.

This advanced technology will significantly enhance TB screening efforts, particularly in communities, helping to prevent the spread of the disease.

The goal is to improve early detection and ensure that those at risk receive timely care.

NDoH’s Acting Secretary for Public Health, Mr. Ken Wai, emphasized the importance of controlling the spread of TB and HIV, noting that these diseases remain a serious concern.

“Our priority is early detection and screening to prevent further transmission, and this remains our main focus,” Mr. Wai said.

He also outlined NDoH’s commitment to ending TB by July 2030, with the collaboration of all Provincial Health Authorities [PHAs] nationwide.

Dr. Robin Oge, Acting CEO of NCDPHA, expressed his gratitude to Mr. Ken Wai and the partners involved in the donation, on behalf of the Board and Management.

“We are committed to fully utilizing this portable X-ray machine to conduct TB screenings across NCD, including the Motu Koitabu community,” Dr. Oge stated.