Director General of Health on overseas medical treatment

By Talaia Mika

APIA, SAMOA – 21 FEBRUARY 2022: The Minister of Health, Valasi Togamaga Tafito Selesele has confirmed that the Director General of Health, Leausa Dr. Toleafoa Take Naseri is in New Zealand for medical treatment.

Leausa left last Saturday after his three-weeks leave was approved for medical treatment under the Government funded medical scheme.

“Leausa started applying for leave last year to undergo medical treatment overseas but he wasn’t able to travel then due to the lockdown as well as what the country and the Ministry were going through due to Covid-19 pandemic,” Valasi told Talamua.

“He went through the proper process and filled all the paperwork and forms needed and he was looking at a proper time to leave for his check-up.”

According to the Health Minister, the Assistant Chief Executive Officers of the Ministry have stepped up to ensure the smooth flow of the Ministry’s work during the Director General’s absence overseas.

Valasi also dispelled rumours that sprung up in the weekend that Leausa’s contract has ended and that he has resigned as untrue.

“I urge the public to refrain from spreading such false information,” he added.

Leausa has led Samoa’s health sector for eight years as the Director General of Health.