The US certified veterinarian Dr. Barbara Kahl left the territory for good last night, after serving just one year of a 2-year contract.
Director of Health Motusa Tuileama Nua told KHJ News, that Dr. Kahl will still be helping the Dept. of Health with animal legislation to replace old antiquated laws on the books from the 1960s.
He said, DOH thanked Dr. Kahl for her valuable contributions and service and wished her well, as she returned to her husband and family in the mainland.
Motusa assured that the territory’s animal population will not be neglected, and the veterinarian on staff will tend to them to await the arrival of a replacement for Dr. Kahl.
He thanked pet owners for their support and understanding.
Meanwhile, at a House hearing yesterday, Representative Vesiai Poyer questioned the Chief Procurement Officer about delays in reimbursements for Dr. Kahl, which was cited as one of the reasons why she quit.
CPO Ti’alemasunu Dr. Mikaele Etuale said, that it was true the good doctor had paid orders of supplies for the vet clinic with her credit card.
He said, Dr. Kahl expected that reimbursements would be done the “next day.”
“As you know, the government doesn’t work that way. There are processes to follow,” he pointed out.
The CPO said, the vet wasn’t happy about having to wait for her reimbursements.
