North Sumatra targets 20 health centers for inpatient care
Mandrehe Health Center in West Nias will expand from 2 to 10 beds to serve 20 villages and 23,000 residents.
The North Sumatra provincial government is targeting 20 health centers for conversion to inpatient clinics this year to widen access to health services, especially in areas far from hospitals. One priority is the Mandrehe Health Center in West Nias regency. North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution said the facility serves 20 villages with about 23,000 residents, while the distance to the nearest regional government hospital is about 60 kilometers. In Mandrehe, inpatient capacity will rise from two to 10 beds. Delivery facilities, doctors, and medical equipment will also be upgraded. The provincial government is also preparing to strengthen human resources through scholarships for specialist doctors at USU and UGM, including five special test participants from the Nias Islands this year.