7 Jul 2014

Vanuatu's PM demands hospital fix

7:44 pm on 7 July 2014

Vanuatu's Prime Minister has called on relevant government departments to work hand-in-hand to rectify the deteriorating situation at Port Vila's main hospital.

Authorities are looking for ways to reverse a 320,000 US dollar budget deficit at Vila Central Hospital, which local reports say is on the brink of collapse.

An aerial view of Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila

An aerial view of Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila Photo: Supplied

Joe Natuman says the hospital has exhausted its year's budget in only six months, which he blames on the health ministry recruiting increased personnel without following proper procedures.

Reports suggest the situation at the hospital is so bad that the Intensive Care Unit may be closed, major extensions to the hospital financed by Japan remain empty and doctors and nurses are threatening to strike.