HIGHLIGHTS
- The Australian Government’s PATH program supports the Government of Papua New Guinea to deliver on its National Health Plan 2021–2030.
- PATH focuses on strengthening the capacity of Provincial Health Authorities and the Bougainville Department of Health.
- PATH also supports effective and efficient delivery of essential health services.
PROJECT
Papua New Guinea - Australia Transition to Health (PATH)
The Challenge
A healthy population is essential for Papua New Guinea’s continued development and economic growth. The Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) aims to strengthen health indicators and health service coverage in PNG, addressing what has to date been slow progress on improving life expectancy and reducing maternal and child mortality.
A stronger health system, including equitable access to essential health services across the country, will support the GoPNG to achieve its development priorities.
The Approach
The Papua New Guinea - Australia Transition to Health (PATH) Program supports the GoPNG to deliver on its National Health Plan 2021–2030. Funded by the Australian Government and managed by Abt Global, PATH both delivers health services and builds the capacity of Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs) and the Bougainville Department of Health.
PATH implements its program through a combination of service delivery and capacity-building initiatives. It works closely with PHAs to strengthen leadership, governance, and operational systems. It integrates essential health services—such as TB treatment, immunisation, sexual and reproductive health, HIV, and family planning—into routine government systems to improve efficiency and sustainability.
The program also embeds gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) principles across all activities to ensure equitable health outcomes. PATH collaborates with stakeholders, including the National Department of Health and Implementing Service Partners, while leveraging data-driven monitoring and reporting to inform decision-making and track progress against outcomes.
The Results
PATH’s portfolio of 17 service delivery projects delivers essential health services to address critical health needs for underserved, mostly rural populations across Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
Sustained engagement in five target provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville has led to improvements in PHAs’ governance and leadership, and their approach to planning and implementing activities. Among a range of positive PHA outcomes, notable progress has been made in coordination and strengthened public financial management.