Papatoetoe, South Auckland – In a significant move to expand healthcare services in South Auckland, the Pasefika Family Health Group (PFHG) held a groundbreaking ceremony today for a new medical facility in Papatoetoe. The new clinic aims to ease the burden on existing healthcare facilities and provide better access to medical services for residents in nearby areas such as Manukau, Papatoetoe, Ormiston, and Otahuhu.
The ceremony was officially opened by PFHG's CEO, Galumalemana Vaifagaloa Naseri, who spoke about the group's ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access for Pacific, Māori, and other communities in South Auckland. A blessing for the new site was offered by Rev. Elder Victor Pouesi, ensuring the project begins on a spiritually sound foundation.
Toalepai Richard Johnston, Chairman of the Pasefika Family Health Group, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of this new clinic in addressing the increasing healthcare demand in South Auckland. He emphasised how the new Papatoetoe facility would help reduce patient load from the group's Weymouth Clinic, which has become very popular and frequently experiences high patient volumes.
Addressing a Growing Healthcare Crisis
The need for more healthcare facilities in South Auckland has been underscored by recent reports of a healthcare crisis in the region. Many clinics, including those in Ōtara, have seen desperate patients queuing as early as 6 AM for doctor visits due to a lack of available medical appointments. The new PFHG facility in Papatoetoe is strategically positioned to alleviate some of this pressure, providing a fully operational clinic to serve the surrounding communities.
New Development Details
Mr. Sham Lal, the Project Manager for the new facility, provided a brief overview of the development. He explained that construction work began today with the removal of old houses on the property. The new medical center will be built to provide a wide range of health services, from general practice to specialised care, aligning with PFHG's integrated health model that has been successfully implemented in other clinics.
The new clinic is part of PFHG's continued efforts to expand its reach and cater to the healthcare needs of South Auckland's growing population. The facility will help deliver more accessible and culturally competent healthcare services to communities that have been underserved in the past. Project Manager Lal, believes that by February the works should be done.
Groundbreaking Ceremony Highlights
The ceremonial groundbreaking was marked by the turning of the first sod by key figures in the organization and community leaders. Toalepai Richard Johnston, Clinical Director Dr. Ali, CEO Galumalemana Vaifagaloa Naseri, CFO Roshni Devi and Community Leader Rev. Victor Pouesi all took part in this symbolic gesture, demonstrating their commitment to the project's success and the future health and well-being of South Auckland residents.
Future Impact
The Papatoetoe clinic represents a significant investment in community health, reflecting PFHG's mission to provide equitable healthcare for all. It will help distribute the patient load more evenly across the region, reducing wait times and enhancing service delivery.
As healthcare demands continue to rise, the new clinic will play a crucial role in supporting the South Auckland community with better, more accessible healthcare options.
With construction now underway, PFHG aims to have the new clinic operational as soon as possible, ensuring that South Auckland residents receive the quality healthcare they deserve.
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