MODILON LACKS MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO TREAT TB PATIENTS

BY Sharon AGAVI

MEDICAL Ward (Ward 2) at Modilon General Hospital in Madang is in need of basic equipment for the treatment of TB patients, particularly those diagnosed with TB of the spine and limbs.

According to Physiotherapist Midi Masia, the ward is currently experiencing a shortage of essential supplies such as drugs, IV fluids, gauze, plaster, gloves, and other medical supplies necessary for treating TB patients.

Despite these challenges, they are doing their best with the resources they have available.

“We take a holistic approach to treating patients, with medical officers handling diagnosis and medication administration while we focus on physical therapy.

However, we are lacking some basic equipment,” Masia explained.

He also mentioned that Ward 2 is overcrowded, facing water shortages, and has outdated and rundown facilities constructed in the colonial era.

Patients with TB of the spine require almost two months of strict bed rest for proper healing before they can begin sitting, standing, or walking.

Physiotherapists work closely with these patients to ensure they do not further injure their spines during the healing process.

Masia emphasized the importance of practicing good health and hygiene at home to prevent TB, especially bone TB.

He advised against overcrowded places, sharing cigarettes and betelnuts, or using public market lime
(Kambang) due to the rapid spread of TB through these unhygienic practices.

He appeals for more awareness about early signs and symptoms of TB so that when anyone presents with similar signs in the communities should be advised to go for TB check up before it becomes worse.