A new cutting edge Intensive Care Telemedicine Unit worth $7.8 million pa'anga installed at Vaiola Hospital on Tongatapu, was opened by Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala on 16 September.

It was funded by JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) under a technical cooperation project for Capacity Development of ICU, using telemedicine during the covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Hiroaki Takashima, JICA'S Resident Representative said, the unit is made up of 14 containers with interior and exterior construction and includes five ICU rooms, various utilities facilities, with work and staff rooms for ICU staff. 

The facility is also equipped with medical equipment necessary for ICU operations, such as mobile digital x-ray machine, electrocardiogram, mobile ventilator and ICT equipment for telemedicine, he said.

He said the cost of setting up the facility is about $7.8 million pa'anga.

"I hope that the new unit will be properly operated and maintained the hospital, with the results of my training and will contribute greatly to the treatment of critically ill patients in Tonga."

Japan's Ambassador HE Mr. Munenaga Kensaku said the handing over of the ICU Units or ICU containers had been a long awaited event.

"Taking into consideration the current situation of Tonga and the haunting presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, these ICU containers are being provided through JICA’s Project for Capacity Development of ICU Using Telemedicine."

At the same time, for the fight against COVID-19, Japan has been supporting Tonga to be well prepared and well equipped in various ways, including the donation of AstraZeneca vaccines, he said.

Dr. Siale 'Akau'ola CEO of Health extended their gratitude to Japan and JICA, who have been suppporting the Ministry for many years, and critically during the pandemic.

"Today we have witnessed your support for health systems strengthening at it's best. Telemedicine support for ICU is really cutting edge technology, and to include Tonga in this technological development is a rare opportunity indeed."

“In addition, one amazing outcome of the covid-19 outbreak in Tonga is testimony to the support we received from strong development partners like Japan,” he said.

Dr 'Akau'ola also conveyed their heartfelt gratitude to the King and Queen in their leadership and support for their COVID-19 vaccination program drive, aimed at protecting our people.

"This is also a historical moment I think this would be first time a new Ministry of Heath facility is officially opened by Your Royal Highness."

The CEO also acknowledged the NBK consultants and engineers who worked on this important project.