Kia Orana Editor, The results as reported by WHO is the same trend from previous years. However, when we talk about universal health coverage the reality is that healthcare services are easily accessible to everyone in the Cook Islands, and are free to everyone residing in the Pa Enua.

Rarotonga residents aged over 16 years and under 60 years pays $5 to see a doctor which is reasonably affordable but TMO still have to chase people up.

Any patient in the Pa Enua requiring secondary or tertiary treatment or care are referred to Rarotonga or to New Zealand as required.

The WHO STEPS Survey 2022 reflects similar trends across majority of the health risk factors.

The TMO healthy island screening also provided the same trend, including oral health amongst our children population is concerning.

It is for this reason the Healthy and Smoke Free Island initiatives are being rolled out to address the increasing rate of NCDs, the level of physical inactivity and the need to reduce the consumption of sweet and sugar beverages, reduce salt and sugar intake, stop smoking and also reduce the consumption of alcohol.

TMO is finalising its Dietary Guidelines before it plans to introduce policies and measures on food. At the same time TMO is also finalising its Physical Activity Guidelines where some national policies will be proposed and engagement with existing groups running physical fitness classes, sports clubs and CISNOC will be important to address the rate of obesity in the Cook Islands.

TMO to date has signed agreements with all schools on Aitutaki, Atiu, Mitiaro, Mauke, Mangaia and Avarua School for the Healthy School initiatives. TMO will be signing up with two more schools on Rarotonga and one school in the Northern Group before end of the fiscal year. This program will continue into the next fiscal year 2024/25.

The Cook Islands is in this situation because most people are not prioritising their health.

Some people are worse off with their health due to the lifestyle choices they made which is self-inflicted.

To address the current health situation affecting our people would require a whole of country solution.

Meitaki ranuinui

Mr Bob Williams | Secretary of Health