April 19, 2024 – Majuro, Marshall Islands – Her Excellency President Hilda C. Heine, accompanied by members of her Cabinet and the Health, Education and Social Affairs (HESA) Committee, conducted a comprehensive tour of the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MOHHS) Leiroj Atama Zedkeia Medical Center on April 19, 2024.
During the visit, President Heine and delegation observed firsthand the pressing challenges afflicting the health system, including outdated infrastructure, inadequate equipment, and a scarcity of trained personnel. The visit provided insight into the urgent need for improvement and innovation to ensure quality healthcare services for all citizens.
The highlight of the tour was the President’s interaction with patients and families at the various wards, including the Maternity and Children’s ward, where she gained valuable insight into the realities faced by healthcare seekers in the RMI.
Prior to the hospital visit, President Heine embarked on an official trip to the Philippines in March 2024. During a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Ferdinand BongBong Marcos, President of the Philippines, President Heine emphasized the necessity for stronger partnership and collaboration with the Philippine Government, particularly in the healthcare sector.
President Heine reaffirmed health as a top priority for her administration, emphasizing, “As we celebrate Health Month and reflect on its theme ‘My Health, My Responsibility – Ao Ejmour Ao Eddo,’ I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring that all necessary requirements to enhance healthcare operations are in place. Health remains a top priority for my administration, and I am fully committed to advancing the health and well-being of all Marshallese citizens.”
