II. Executive Summary
Because of significant time limitations and an already existing 5-year
plan for the Marshall Islands (1981-86) developed by the Trust Territory
of the Pacific
Islands,
Loma Linda University concentrated more on
developing a health strategy proposal
than
a detailed health plan.
Particular attention was paid to the issues involved in a national vs. 4
atoll health care system.
The Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands is currently phasing down.
Many functions
previously covered
by that
office,
i.e.
licensing,
planning, personnel, etc. will need to be assumed by the Marshall [sland
Government.
Existing health care financing in the Marshalls comes partly from the
U.S. and partly from internal Marshallese sources.
It is recommended
that additionalmonies available from P.L.96-205 be combinedwith these.
_existing funds rather than components of.
of ‘the health care system receive
monies from different unrelated budgetary sources.
There
are
a
Marshalls.
minimal
radiation
related
ot
"
health
effects
pine
evident
in
the
The primary need is for a basic health care system capable
of providing primary, secondary and tertiary care.
The system should
have an awareness of a radiation effects as an integra] and identifiable
component of comprehensive care.
The Government of the Marshall Islands is seeking to rapidly expend its
air, ship and radio communication with the outer atolls.
Rather than
attempt to develop a distribution referral and supervision system for
health ahead of outer sectors, at an exorbitant cost, it is recommended
that the health care system be built around these current inadequacies.
One of the biggest detriments to basic health are, even on Majuro and
Ebeye, is Tack of adequate supplies and maintenance.
It is imperative
that a strong support system be developed to meet this need.
The primarycarewill be built on medical assistants and health
ee emer am blir > ea
assistants on Majuro and Ebeye- as well as the outer islands.
Small
populations with minimal work loads are adequately covered by these
workers,
with
consultation
from
the
hospital
physicians,
verbally via radio or by referral, for the more difficult cases.
either
wee ee
A.