Intern doctor John Ala from Vanuatu National Referral Hospital (VNRH) has highlighted the struggles young doctors face when working in provincial hospitals, saying they often lack the support and resources they need to do their jobs well.

Ala explained that interns are frequently posted to rural or provincial health facilities where they must handle complex cases with little guidance. “It is important to have mentors in the provinces to guide us and give advice, so we can meet our objectives and serve the country effectively,” he said.

He noted that working with limited resources can be overwhelming for interns who are still learning. “In the provinces, we face many challenges. With clear plans and a good team, we can still make a difference, but the support systems are not strong enough,” Ala said.

Medical equipment is another major gap. Ala stressed that without the right tools, it is difficult for interns to provide timely care. He also called for more regular training and consultation so that young doctors can continue to build their skills and meet the standards expected at VNRH.

“Human resources must include specialist doctors in the provinces to support us. Every plan and program must have a sustainable budget and proper training so provincial health services can reach their full potential,” Ala said.