A church service Sunday at the CCCAS Petesa-tai church opened National Community Health Centers Week.
The event, with the theme “Boots on the Ground, Hearts in the Work,” highlights the role of community health centers and promotes the service of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other personnel who staff these centers. Rev. Elder Faataa Eleasaro, who led the service, offered words of encouragement to the staff.
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Rev. Elder Faataa Eleasaro is the Chairman of the Community Health Centers Governing Board.
Director of Health Dr. Saipale Fuimaono said from the first community health center at Tafuna which was opened in 2002, there are now seven community health centers in the territory. Tutuila has centers in Tafuna, Leone, Fagaalu, Amouli, and Aunuu, while Manu’a has community health centers in Ofu and Tau. He said that the centers are equipped to provide primary health care with the intention that the public would use the LBJ Emergency Room only for emergencies and serious health issues.
He said that American Samoa is blessed to receive federal funding for the health centers. Today, that funding is more than $3 million, and the centers employ between 200 and 300 people.
Lt. Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. also delivered remarks, acknowledging the service of employees in taking care of the health of our people.
Attending the church service were Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, Vice Speaker Fetui Fetu, directors, members of the Community Health Centers Governing Board, and Department of Health staff.
