Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health is expected to launch a five-year Strategic Plan for the National Health Sector by the end of this month.

Late last month, from May 23 – 26, consultations were held with TMO staff including the Pa Enua staff via Zoom and stakeholders on Rarotonga. Another consultation was held for the Aitutaki staff and community on May 29 and 30.

Ministry of Health’s director planning and funding, Roana Mataitini says the Strategic Plan for the National Health Sector determines what the health ministry’s priorities are for the next five years, setting goals, objectives and targets to achieve. 

Mataitini adds it is all part of achieving TMO’s vision – “all people living in the Cook Islands living healthier lives and achieving their aspirations”.

“The policy goals of the strategy are centred on services and people. Major health issues and causes of significant mortality and morbidity related to non-communicable diseases are targeted in this health strategy.

“Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and related complications are the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the country. Rheumatic heart disease as well as mental illnesses are also targeted for better diagnosis and management.”

Mataitini says chronic renal disease mostly due to diabetes is also a growing concern.

“In relation to NCD, smoking and overweight/obesity are the most common preventable risk factors. 

“The new Public Health Bill will be fully implemented which focuses on health outcomes, protection of borders aiming to manage the risks associated with communicable diseases, equipping the community to address health challenges it faces and protect health of individuals and the community.”

TMO acknowledged the significant contributions of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and World Health Organisation (WHO) who funded the strategic work including technical assistant David Angelson for supporting the team in writing the document.