The Christian Blind Mission (CBM) has committed to working closely with Rabaul Provincial Hospital (RPH) to strengthen the mobility capacity and training of its physiotherapy unit.

Speaking during World Physiotherapy Day celebrations at RPH, CBM Director Michael Lulu highlighted the critical health needs in East New Britain Province (ENBP), noting that 152, 000 people in the province currently require rehabilitation services.

Specifically, records indicate that 17, 000 people need walking aids, 5, 000 require wheelchairs, and 2, 200 need prosthetics and orthotics.

“These people need support for mobility and assistive devices to safely restore physical movement, build muscle strength and regain independence after a major injury, surgery or illness,” Mr. Lulu stated.

Looking ahead, Mr. Lulu explained that CBM is expanding its assistance to include devices such as walking aids, wheeled mobility devices, prosthetic and orthotic devices, and postural and standing supports.

“There is now a new partnership with RPH that CBM will now support the Physiotherapy Unit apart from the already established working relationship we have with the eye clinic and that is to conduct trainings.”

“The same arrangement is also in a working collaboration with the Vunapope, St Mary’s Hospital in preparation for a new rehabilitation centre to be opened next month.”

Welcoming the collaboration, Physiotherapy Unit Coordinator Joseph Tapal noted that cardiovascular diseases and stroke remain among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, emphasizing that stronger partnerships can play a crucial role in prevention and treatment.

“Many of these conditions are preventable and manageable through early intervention, lifestyle modifications, knowledge exchange, innovative ideas, and strengthening our collaborations to combat these health challenges effectively.”