After passing an evaluation by the Papua New Guinea Medical Board, Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has been given a three-year license to offer medical services in Western province. This followed a visit by several members of the PNG Medical Board to see OTML’s operations in September and conducted a comprehensive review of OTML’s healthcare services, facilities, and its outreach to the communities. The board was impressed by the company’s extensive social responsibility footprint, noting that OTML’s health services extend beyond the mine site to the Preferred Area and other impacted regions. This includes the Medivac program and ongoing support to North Fly District. Manager Health Services, Raymond Singamis, said OTML has been commended for its commitment to delivering healthcare services that meet the National Department of Health (NDoH) Standards, thus being granted a full three-year license instead of the one-year interim extension that was requested. “As a company, we want to be compliant in every aspect of our operations and health services is one of them. It’s an exciting journey because OTML will now be managing the hospital going forward, but will be outsourcing the labour hire to our local contractors as part of promoting local business content." “We are now preparing for a national accreditation assessment by the National Department of Health Standards team in November 2024. The NHSS team will evaluate Tabubil Hospital, which was last rated as a five-star hospital during the 2018 accreditation,” Mr Singamis said. As part of its vision for the future, OTML is now the sole operator of Tabubil Hospital under an owner-operator model, which brings several advantages, including: 1. Compliance and Standards – OTML is committed to adhering to national health standards, ensuring the delivery of high-quality and compliant healthcare. 2. Improved Patient Care – By managing the hospital directly, OTML aims to elevate the standard of care, reduce waiting times, and enhance overall patient satisfaction. 3. Cost Savings – Direct management will enable OTML to reinvest cost savings into the redevelopment of hospital facilities, ultimately improving infrastructure and healthcare delivery. The Health Services Department is working on a three-year strategic plan that will guide the future development of its healthcare services. This plan includes the modernisation of medical technology, the possible introduction of drone medical services, and partnerships with specialised healthcare providers. Meantime, with the granting of this three-year license and the implementation of its strategic healthcare development plan, OTML is committed to elevating healthcare services for its workforce and the communities it serves.