The Northern Marianas' Resident Representative says the Commonwealth's only hospital has become a public hazard due to its antiquated facilities and equipment.
Pete Tenorio says the Commonwealth Health Center facility needs at least 4-million US dollars for repairs and medical equipment.
He says it is a health and safety issue because a lot of the equipment is faulty including back-up power generators used during blackouts.
Mr Tenorio says the CHC is also too small to cater for a population of around 70,000 people.
"The hospital as it is right now needs to be expanded. It was designed for a population of about 25,000 or 30,000, with 184 beds. Now it is supposed to serve a population of almost 3 times the original design."
Pete Tenorio says his request of 4 million dollars to the US Congress is only a preliminary proposal and more money will be needed later.
