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Nena Turned Over to Kosrae Ultra-Sound Machine

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): November 26, 1997 - President Jacob Nena, on October 27, 1997, informed Governor of Kosrae Moses Mackwelung that he is turning over to Kosrae State Government the responsibilities and control over an ultra-sound machine.

The machine will be used in hospitals for scanning fetus in pregnant women's womb, among other uses, was recently donated to the FSM Government by the Government of Japan. It is estimated to cost between $35,000 to $40,000 a Health Services official said.

Presently, only Pohnpei Hospital has an ultra-sound machine and there is need for another one to take care of the present demand level. Chuuk Hospital had one but it was broken and has not been repaired nor replaced. Yap Hospital does not have one yet.

Ultra-sound machine also has other uses. It can be used to detect other internal disorders in the abdomen, a health official said.

With the annual population growth rate of 2.0 to 2.5 percent in the FSM can be translated into around 100 births a month in Pohnpei; 130-150 in Chuuk and between 60 and 80 births a month for each Kosrae and Yap, an official of FSM Health Services Department (said), adding that it shows there is a justifiable cause for each State to purchase its own machine for the benefit of its citizens.

In granting Kosrae State this equipment, Nena added that Kosrae State Government is obligated to ensure that the equipment is installed and supplies be maintained properly and effectively for the execution of the project.

Nena added that all expenses not covered by the grant are to be borne by the State of Kosrae. Also the State must advise the FSM National Government of any proposed changes in the use of the project components, Nena concluded.