A new private healthcare service in Luganville is expected to ease pressure on Northern Provincial Hospital by expanding access to affordable, quality healthcare for people across Santo.

Kingstown Ramesa Clinic has been established to provide professional nursing services, promote disease prevention and improve access to healthcare as Sanma’s population continues to grow.

Owner Cedric Melteck said the clinic was created to improve community health while complementing existing public health services.

“Our aim is to improve community health, reduce the burden on the public hospital, promote health education and disease prevention, and provide services that respect every patient’s values, needs and expectations.”

Mr Melteck brings more than a decade of experience in the health sector, having served as a registered nurse at what is now the Vanuatu National Hospital and later as Acting Operating Theatre In-Charge at Northern Provincial Hospital.

He said patients can expect healthcare delivered with professionalism, compassion and respect.

“Every patient will be treated with respect and compassion. We will protect their privacy and confidentiality, whether they are children, adults or the elderly.”

Acting Sanma Public Health Manager Susan Tavimele Wokeke welcomed the additional healthcare service, saying it would help improve access to care as demand continues to increase.

“We fully support the establishment of this private clinic because we recognise that our population is growing. As Northern Provincial Hospital continues to develop into a referral hospital, clinics like this will improve access to healthcare for our people.”

The clinic is fully registered with the Ministry of Health and holds the required licence and permit to operate.