By U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Wesley Farnsworth
RC-East PAO
PAKTYA PROVINCE, Afghanistan—Afghanistan is one of the United States Agency for International Development’s largest assistance missions, reflecting the commitment of the U.S. to the region’s long term stability and progress.
The construction of a new, 100-bed hospital in Gardez City, will offer a variety of services for patients, including physical therapy, surgery, cardiology, pediatrics and a women’s health specialist.
“Currently there are 37 health clinics and one hospital in the Paktya region, but this one will be the crown jewel,” said Dunni Goodman, USAID’s field program officer. “This will be the central hospital that all the clinics and district hospitals send people to.”
Officials project the hospital will service more than 1.5 million people and employ more than 200 local Afghan workers.
“Our joint goal is to attract the top physicians in every speciality to give Paktya residents top-quality health care,” Goodman added.
Health care services will be offered to patients at little to no cost, according to their individual needs.
USAID plays a critical role in PRT Paktya’s multi-service, interagency mission.
Goodman is a member of Paktya’s Provincial Reconstruction Team PRT, a team made up of military members and civilians from the U.S. State Department, U.S. Department of Agriculture and USAID.
Together, the team works in partnership with Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan officials to improve security governance and development efforts throughout the Paktya province.
USAID facilitates jobs for the people of Afghanistan and assists in increasing security and infrastructure in the country through a variety of programs.
In 2002, USAID helped secure more than $173 million to support funding for development programs in Paktya. USAID also employs local Afghans to assist in their operations.
“I’ve worked with USAID for three years and I’ve seen a lot of projects and changes in Afghanistan” said Sahar Mohammad, USAID deputy field program officer from Khowst province, an on-site monitor who ensures projects remain on schedule. “It makes me hopeful for the future of this country.”
USAID helps in many areas including agriculture, medical care, education, economic development and infrastructure.
“USAID is truly proud to make a contribution to the improvement and sustainability of Afghanistan” said Dan Klaus, PRT Paktya’s USAID senior field program officer.
Date Taken: | 11.23.2011 |
Date Posted: | 11.23.2011 13:52 |
Story ID: | 80504 |
Location: | PAKTYA PROVINCE, AF |
Web Views: | 225 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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