Public Health Services

Leads preventive health programs, disease surveillance, immunisation, maternal care, nutrition, and community outreach across Southern Highlands Province.

Mr. George Epei

Mr. George Epei

Director Public Health (DPH)

The office of the Director of Public Health Services would sincerely like to thank everyone within SHPHA, including the executive management and both clinical and corporate service staff, for your invaluable contribution annually. It is your hard work that keeps Mendi Provincial Specialized Hospital, our district hospitals, and our rural health services running for our communities today in 2026.
Over the years, our health authority has been affected by many internal and external problems. We have faced severe drug and consumable shortages, poor logistic support, funding constraints, and political unrest in Southern Highlands Province, which began heavily around 2017 and created long-term challenges for our field operations.
Despite all these problems, our management and staff stood firm to see that basic services continued for the people of Southern Highlands Province who sought treatment at Mendi, Ialibu, and Pimaga hospitals, including all Level 1 to 4 facilities. Under the sure leadership of our CEO, Dr. Joseph Birisi, the PHA remains confident and continues to ensure that public health and clinical services are not disrupted.

Disease Control & Surveillance

Monitors, detects, and responds to disease outbreaks, manages immunisation programs, conducts epidemiological surveillance, and coordinates public health emergency responses across Southern Highlands Province.

Family Health Services

Provides maternal and child health care, family planning, immunisation, antenatal and postnatal services, and nutrition support to improve family wellbeing across Southern Highlands Province communities.

Health Promotion

Designs and delivers community health education campaigns, behaviour change communication, and public awareness programs to promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention across Southern Highlands Province