Te Marae Ora (TMO) Ministry of Health says there will be a temporary relocation of Tupapa Health Care services from Monday, May 13, due to a project with Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC).

The project involves the removal of roofing materials containing asbestos.

Tupapa Health Centre’s primary health care services will be relocated to Te Kou Ward at Rarotonga Hospital for general health services.

The oral health services team will move to the community health and school dental clinics. Adults can be seen at the Avarua School Dental Clinic, Matavera Puna Clinic, Titikaveka Puna Clinic and Arorangi School Dental Clinic.

As previously reported, the relocation was initially planned for June. CIIC said that an extensive planning spanning a year would be committed to safely remove asbestos roofing and relocate the primary health care services.

CIIC in an earlier statement said the project included building enhancements to support and improve public health and dental services for the community.

The project is subject to weather conditions and material supplies.

CIIC chief executive Allan Jensen said: “Efforts are focused on minimal disruption to health care services while addressing the long-standing issue of the asbestos roof.”

TMO said that patients with appointments at Tupapa Primary Health Care and Oral Health Services would be contacted to reschedule.

Signage at Tupapa Primary Health Care will indicate the closure date and new service locations.