The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted global health systems, and the Cook Islands was no exception. Te Marae Ora (TMO), the Ministry of Health for the Cook Islands, faced significant challenges as they navigated the public health crisis. Post-pandemic, TMO recognised the need to re-evaluate their National Health Strategic Plan to identify areas of success and those needing improvement. In 2023, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the ministry embarked on a comprehensive assessment and strategic revision to enhance health services over the next five years. Read the new National Health Strategic Plan 2023-2027 here.
Future Partners Associate Dr David Angelson was part of the Prime Consulting team undertaking the review of the previous Strategic Plan and the development of the new plan covering 2023-2027.
Challenges
The Cook Islands faced several challenges: limited resources, human resource gaps, and the logistical difficulties of delivering services across remote islands. The Ministry aimed to incorporate best practices, modernise equipment and technology, and improve patient satisfaction. Key objectives included updating patient referral policies, enhancing community outreach, and adopting structural and organisational changes.
Approach
To tackle these challenges, TMO implemented a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach:
Policy and Planning:
A thorough review of the 2017-2021 National Health Strategic Plan.
Regular updates to management policies.
Development of service plans under the new National Health Strategic Plan 2023+.
Capacity Building:
Training programmes focused on digital screening tools.
Biennial health checks in schools.
Maintaining high immunisation rates and effective post-natal care.
Infrastructure and Community Outreach:
Upgrading health clinics and sanitation facilities.
Offering mental health services via telemedicine.
Promoting healthy lifestyles through community classes.
Outcomes
The initiative led to several positive outcomes. Baselines for treatment needs were established, and community consultations ensured strong local engagement. Scoping studies were completed for specialist services, lab improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and disaster resilience. Specialist and primary care programmes were successfully implemented.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the Cook Islands Ministry of Health remains committed to further enhancing health services. This includes developing staff skills in public and oral health, expanding telemedicine, and continuing infrastructure upgrades, subject to necessary approvals and funding.
Conclusion
The Cook Islands' efforts to revitalise their health services highlight their commitment to improving healthcare quality and access. Through strategic planning, capacity building, and community engagement, the Ministry is setting a robust foundation for a healthier future in the Pacific Islands. This initiative not only strengthens the local health system but also serves as a model for international development in similar contexts.
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