10 Jun 2015

Samoa gets new orthotics and prosthetics workshop

1:52 pm on 10 June 2015

Hundreds of Samoans with amputated limbs can now lead fuller lives after the opening of the new state of the art orthotics and prosthetics workshop.

The Prime Minister, Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, speaking at the opening on Monday, said it is an area that has been neglected too long.

The new facility was jointly funded by the Australia and New Zealand aid programmes as well as the World Bank at a cost of $US2.5 million dollars.

Tuila'epa says the new project will ensure high standards of care for patients with neuromuscular and skeletal problems, enabling them to move and function well and reduce pain.

"As the first of its kind in the region this facility will also serve to link with other budgets in the country for people with special needs. These synergies should be strengthened at all costs to genuinely pursue for the sake of our people, especially children and the elderly."