The Madang Hospital

Abstract

The Madang Hospital, opened in April, 1961, is a modern structure which cost £662,000. Disease in the Territory follows a pattern that is typical in underdeveloped areas of the tropics. During 1959-60, 287 medical patrols were carried out during which 369,066 people in 2,930 villages were examined. Malaria, malnutrition, tuberculosis, yaws, and leprosy were relatively common before European influence. The toll from these diseases has been greatly reduced; some diseases, like yaws, have been practically eradicated. In June, 1949, there were 258 village aid posts. By June, 1960, that number had increased to 1,267. Aeroplanes are used extensively to bring natives from the more remote areas to medical centres for treatment.