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Unutilized dialysis machines in Chuuk State being reconsidered

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): March 27, 2012 - More than a year ago, the Government of Israel donated two dialysis machines to Chuuk Hospital to help with kidney related problems in the State of Chuuk. The machines could not be utilized upon their arrival as there were outstanding logistical difficulties and other challenges that prevented immediate installation.

In a March 6 letter from President Manny Mori to Governor Johnson Elimo, the President informed the Governor of his intention to recall the machines from Chuuk State if they remained uninstalled and not being used by the next three months.

The President is concerned that while other parts of the nation desperately need such equipment, the two machines have been unutilized and remained idle at the Chuuk Hospital for a long time. This kind of situation, according to the President, creates negative implications on FSM's sincerity and ability to utilize the much needed assistance from donors and partners, such as Israel.

By the letter, the President invited the Chuuk State Department of Health Services to also provide information on the status of the dialysis machines and the hospital's readiness to fully make use of them in the next three months.

The President's Office has not received any response from neither the Chuuk State Department of Health Services nor the Governor's Office as of March 26.