Across the region, the ability of countries to respond varies. “Some countries in the region have strong health systems, such as Thailand, Malaysia, and China,” explains Dr. Chris.
“But other countries, such as Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and some Pacific nations have very weak systems.”
“Some Pacific nations have
very weak [health] systems.”
“This is largely due to inequitable health service delivery systems, a lack of quality human resources and a lack of referral systems.”
“Countries, like Timor-Leste for example, are still developing their health system and rely on external funding. Those systems are particularly weak.”