Thousands Attend Mega Health Clinic in Papua New Guinea

Clinic is part of the lead-up to the nationwide PNG for Christ evangelist campaign.

Tracey Bridcutt, Adventist Record

In extraordinary scenes, thousands of people queued for check-ups at a mega health clinic held in Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands Province, April 16-19.

Located at Mount Hagen, the clinic opened on Tuesday with a large welcoming ceremony attended by more than 2,500 people, including the governor of the Western Highlands Province, Wai Rapa.

A joint effort of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s 10,000 Toes Campaign and Adventist World Radio, the clinic was manned by 426 volunteers: 86 doctors, 40 nurses and 300 local health workers. Services included diabetes screenings and other medical and dental checks.

Intermittent heavy rain made the conditions challenging. However, the medical volunteers remained steadfast in their mission. While the clinic remained open until April 19, an eye clinic is extending services until April 26. The target was to assist 20,000 patients during this period.

“What an incredible day it has been here,” one of the organizers said. “We’ve witnessed lives being transformed, bodies being healed, and spirits being lifted. Truly, it’s a testament to the power and glory of God.”

Embracing a holistic approach to health care, the clinic not only sought to serve the underprivileged but also to embody the healing ministry inspired by the teachings of Jesus and provide an environment for international and local health professionals to learn from each other.

The clinic was held in the lead-up to the PNG for Christ evangelistic campaign, which is set to begin on April 26.