Dr Jonah Kurubi appointed WHPHA CEO

(L-R) Dr. Jonah Kurubi (New WHPHA CEO), Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa (middle), and Jane Holden (outgoing WHPHA Acting CEO) recently at a press conference in Mt Hagen. (NBC News)

The Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority has a new Chief Executive Officer in Dr Jonah Kurubi.

His appointment was announced by WHPHA Board Chairman Sam Koim during the opening of the new radiology diagnostic unit at Mt Hagen Provincial Specialist Hospital on Friday.

Dr Kurubi is a senior specialist medical officer and has served the hospital for many years in different roles. Before taking up this new role, he was the Director of Medical Services at the WHPHA.

Mr Koim said Dr Kurubi’s experience and long service in the health sector make him the right person to lead the authority.

“Dr Kurubi has served this hospital for many years and understands the needs of our people and the health system,” Mr Koim said.

Dr Kurubi now takes over from Acting Chief Executive Officer Jane Holden.

Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority (WHPHA) Board Chairman Sam Koim announced the new CEO of WHPHA during the 60th Anniversary Celebration of Mt Hagen Provincial Specialist Hospital and the opening of the new radiology diagnostic unit with other support medical equipment (NBC News)

Mr Koim also thanked Ms Holden for her leadership during her time as Acting CEO.

"Jane is a ironlady. Her leadership has been productivity at the hospital and PHA level and I want to challenge the hospital staff to endure Jane's type of leadership and work on that."

“We acknowledge Jane for her hard work, perseverance and dedication in keeping the organisation running for the last five years,” Koim stressed.

The WHPHA Board Chairman said the board looks forward to continued improvements in healthcare services under Dr Kurubi’s leadership, with close mentoring to be provided by Mr Koim and Ms Holden.