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Top 5 Cancer Care Hospitals in Papua New Guinea

2 March 2025

Cancer care in Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces significant challenges due to limited resources and infrastructure. However, several key facilities provide essential oncology services, offering hope to those in need of treatment. Understanding these options is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike.

1. Papua New Guinea National Cancer Centre

Location: Port Moresby

Overview: This is the leading cancer referral and treatment center in Papua New Guinea, offering critical oncology services.

Key Features:

Radiation treatment and chemotherapy: Provides essential cancer therapies.
Education and awareness programs: Supports cancer prevention and patient education.
Referral services: Assists in directing patients to appropriate care facilities.

This center remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment in PNG, despite resource limitations.

2. Angau Memorial Hospital

Location: Lae

Overview: A major regional referral hospital serving over 1.9 million residents, with a focus on cancer treatment.

Key Features:

Radiotherapy services: Includes external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.
International support: Receives assistance from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to enhance its oncology capabilities.
Comprehensive medical care: Provides multidisciplinary healthcare services alongside cancer treatment.

Angau Memorial Hospital plays a vital role in providing cancer care outside the capital city.

3. Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) Cancer Care

Location: Port Moresby

Overview: Recognized as the first comprehensive cancer center in the developing Pacific, PMGH is expanding its oncology services.

Key Features:

Surgical oncology: Provides cancer-related surgeries.
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy: Offers advanced treatment options for various cancers.
Upcoming expansion: Clinical operations for enhanced cancer care are expected to commence in September 2025.

PMGH is a critical institution working toward improving cancer care accessibility in PNG.

4. Pacific International Hospital (PIH)

Location: Port Moresby

Overview: A private healthcare provider offering specialized cancer treatment alongside other medical services.

Key Features:

Medical and surgical oncology: Provides a team-based approach to cancer treatment.
Multi-specialty services: Offers integrated healthcare beyond oncology.
Advanced medical technology: Equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment facilities.

PIH is a viable option for patients seeking private healthcare with specialized oncology services.

5. Paediatric Oncology Ward at Port Moresby General Hospital

Location: Port Moresby

Overview: Established in 2015, this is the only dedicated pediatric oncology ward in PNG, providing care for young cancer patients.

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Key Features:

Specialized pediatric cancer care: Focuses on treating childhood cancers.
Limited capacity: Serves 40-60 patients annually, highlighting the need for expansion.
Support for families: Offers counseling and education for parents of young patients.

While limited in scope, this facility provides essential pediatric oncology services.

Challenges Facing Cancer Care in Papua New Guinea

Cancer patients in PNG encounter several barriers to treatment:

Limited Medical Infrastructure: Few hospitals have the necessary equipment and personnel for comprehensive cancer care.
Financial Constraints: Many patients struggle with the costs associated with treatment and travel.
Shortage of Oncology Specialists: There are insufficient trained cancer specialists in PNG.
Delayed Diagnoses: Many cases are detected in advanced stages due to a lack of early screening programs.
Need for Medical Evacuation: Some patients require treatment abroad, which can be financially and logistically challenging.

Potential Solutions for Improving Cancer Care

Efforts to strengthen PNG’s cancer care system should focus on:

Expanding Infrastructure: Increasing investment in medical equipment and treatment facilities.
Training Healthcare Workers: Developing local expertise in oncology through specialized training programs.
Enhancing Early Detection Programs: Establishing nationwide cancer screening initiatives.
Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between government hospitals and private healthcare providers.
Increasing International Support: Seeking continued assistance from global health organizations to improve cancer treatment access.

Final Thoughts

While Papua New Guinea faces significant challenges in providing comprehensive cancer care, existing facilities such as the PNG National Cancer Centre, Angau Memorial Hospital, and PMGH Cancer Care offer crucial services. The expansion of healthcare infrastructure and increased investment in medical training and technology will be essential in improving cancer outcomes for PNG’s population.

Continued efforts to enhance early detection, treatment accessibility, and specialist training can help bridge the gap in oncology care. Until then, understanding the available medical options remains vital for patients and their families navigating cancer treatment in PNG.