What’s good for Upolu is also good for Savai’i.

With the dedication of the $6million renovation to the Malietoa Tanumafili II Hospital in Tuasivi yesterday, some 46,000 residents on the big island can now enjoy much-improved health facilities.

The facilities include an extended eye and dental clinic, pharmacy, medical records room, emergency room, maternity ward and community service rooms. Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, opened the project yesterday, acknowledging the help from the governments of Australia, New Zealand and the World Bank.

He said the government’s goal is to ensure all Samoans have access to quality health care. This is why the government prioritises health.

 “These works are all part of the government’s continuous commitment to improve the conditions and quality of health care services in Savai’i,” he said.

“In fact our healthcare models ensure that this hospital incorporates a walk in general outpatient and emergency medical care 24/7.”

Acting High Commissioner for New Zealand, Michael Walsh, said the facility is an impressive structure.

 “The renovations and extension of the hospital guarantees accessibility for the people of Savai’i to improved health service delivery through the state-of-the-art health facilities as enjoyed by those living in Upolu,” he said.

“We are looking forward to see the remainder of the infrastructure funded through the Health Sector Wide Approach Programme being completed in the near future.”

The project was carried out by Ah Liki Construction Ltd.

“We are confident the hospital has been refurbished to high standards and equipped to meet public health needs.”