Overview:
Palau’s Ministry of Health and Human Services is accelerating efforts to modernize its health system through strategic partnerships and data-driven solutions, laying the groundwork for more efficient and sustainable public health services.
Partnership-driven approach strengthens MoHSS efficiency and long-term resilience
KOROR, Palau (March 20, 2026) — The Republic of Palau is advancing efforts to modernize its public health systems, with the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHSS) leveraging partnerships and strategic planning to build more efficient and sustainable services, according to ASTHO (Association of State And Territorial Health Officials).
Through funding from the Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG), MHSS has partnered with HealthEfficient to support data modernization initiatives, including the rollout of a national electronic health record (EHR) system. The collaboration builds on earlier regional work facilitated by the Pacific Islands Primary Care Association, which introduced HealthEfficient to Pacific jurisdictions through EHR planning and readiness programs.
The partnership is designed to address longstanding challenges in Palau’s health system by reducing data silos, strengthening workforce capacity, and adopting modern technologies. MHSS also worked with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials to define priorities and establish benchmarks for success.
HealthEfficient now serves as an extension of the MHSS team, managing daily coordination of data modernization work while allowing ministry staff to focus on strategic leadership. Regular meetings—held twice weekly for EHR implementation and twice monthly for broader initiatives—have helped maintain steady progress.
Due to capacity constraints, MHSS adjusted its EHR launch timeline from December 2025 to the first half of 2026. Officials said the revised schedule has allowed for improvements in workflows and better support for staff, rather than slowing overall progress.
“Even with limited staffing, leadership recognized how critical this project was for Palau and contracted HealthEfficient not only to manage much of the day-to-day work but also to help build our internal capacity, ultimately strengthening overall systems and creating long-term impact,” said Sherilynn Madraisau, director of the Bureau of Public Health Services.
Officials acknowledged that challenges remain, including limited staffing, technical complexity, and the need to coordinate across multiple partners. However, leaders emphasized that maintaining cultural alignment and local ownership is central to the initiative.
“Our consultants bring valuable expertise and guidance, but it’s equally important that the work reflects our culture and our priorities,” said Edolem Ikerdeu, executive director of the Palau Community Health Center.
MHSS officials say early progress is already visible. The ministry reports improved coordination, increased staff capacity in areas such as cybersecurity and systems upgrades, and stronger decision-making on technology investments with support from external advisors.
“A lot has been new for staff, but learning together and building skills in this new area has been a good experience,” said Tmong Udui, acting chief of the Division of Health Informatics and Intelligence.
The effort reflects a broader strategy to build resilient systems that extend beyond short-term funding. By emphasizing clear planning, structured project management, and culturally informed partnerships, MHSS aims to establish a modern health infrastructure capable of supporting Palau’s long-term public health needs.
The article was originally published March 18, 2026, by Saisha Adhikari.