The Director General of Health Aiono Dr. Alec Ekeroma assured the public that two functional ultrasound machines are available at the national hospital. 

His comments came in response to concerns raised by some members of the public who had reported that only one ultrasound machine was in operation at the hospital.

Aiono clarified that there are two working ultrasound machines at the National Hospital, including one main machine and a portable one. 

He explained that while the primary ultrasound machine is temporarily out of service due to software issues, the biomedical team is actively working to resolve the problem. Additionally, two new ultrasound machines are expected to arrive in October funded by Japanese Aid.

Addressing concerns from Savai'i, Aiono confirmed that Tuasivi Hospital also has an ultrasound machine. However, there have been challenges in finding qualified personnel to operate it. 

"There is a USS machine at the Tuasivi Hospital. We have advertised for more than a year for a sonographer to work at Tuasivi but no one has applied. 

"Therefore, since last June, the radiology team from TTMH have visited the MT2 every month to perform ultrasound scans. Weekly visits to see only a few patients were not deemed feasible."

Aiono emphasized that weekly visits, which would only serve a limited number of patients, were not considered practical.

Currently, there are two qualified sonographers in the public health service, with one more undergoing training. Additionally, three sonographers are working in the private sector.

Aiono also responded to the concerns of the public, acknowledging that while some individuals have raised issues about healthcare services, many others have expressed their gratitude. 

He cited a message from a grateful patient, who shared their positive experience with the emergency room and hospital teams. The patient, who had been critically ill upon admission, thanked the hospital staff for their professional care and commitment. They expressed their deep appreciation for the dedicated work of the healthcare professionals, noting their recovery and ongoing progress after being discharged.

Aiono concluded by emphasising the importance of maintaining balance in the public discourse, acknowledging both concerns and the positive feedback from grateful patients who continue to benefit from the care provided at the national hospital.