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Background
Since the Minahasa mine opened in 1996, PT Newmont Minahasa Raya (PT NMR) has implemented extensive community development programs, with health care being one of the primary targets. Healthy communities are essential and PT NMR has cooperated closely with government programs to achieve this. Programs have covered three Kecamatans: Ratatotok, Belang (Minahasa Selatan), and Kotabunan (Bolaag Mongondow).
PT NMR has built two and renovated four community health (Puskesmas) centers, including the centers that provide services to Buyat Pantai and Buyat Kampung, and funds the provision of medicine to the community in cases where there is need.
The company covers the cost for Buyat Pantai and the nine villages in Ratatotok to participate in the Posyandu program, also known as integrated health service groups which focus on women and small children. The Posyandu includes monthly village-level meetings with lectures to educate women and services such as immunization, health checks for kids age five and under, and health service for elderly and sick persons in the community. The nutritional supplements distributed at this program have been boosted in 2005 with additional milk supplies.
PT NMR has sponsored special programs such as a mass vaccination program including polio in 2002, Hepatitis B vaccinations in 2005, and has provided basic clinic equipment like an oxygen regulator, blood pressure meter and weight scales, surgery equipment, and furniture. Beginning in June 2005 a nurse is visiting Buyat Pantai four days per week to enable residents to receive consultations nearer to home.
Additionally, an ambulance service was funded to support the villages’ health clinics, including both vehicle and fuel costs. Ongoing monthly financial assistance is provided to Puskesmas in Ratatotok and Kotabunan. The assistance helps with medicines, surgeries, free care for low-income families, and clinic operation. In May and June 2005, all patients in Ratatotok villages are being provided with free medical care.
PT NMR has sponsored emergency medical care such as operations in Jakarta, additional doctors, and family support in special cases where local treatment was insufficient to meet the patient’s need.
Public sanitation projects supported the goal of healthy communities by setting up fresh water storage and piping systems, public toilets, garbage bins and disposal centers, and beach clean up services.
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