Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Governor’s Office hosted its first Health and Human Services (HHS) Stakeholders Meeting last week, a step in strengthening collaboration among key agencies and partners within the Health and Human Services ecosystem.

Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula encouraged all participants to explore every avenue to ensure that American Samoa’s healthcare system remains equipped and ready to serve the community effectively.

The stakeholder group brings together diverse voices with shared interests in enhancing health and human services across the territory. This initial meeting set the foundation for continued discussions and strategic planning to improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes for the people of American Samoa.

The Health and Human Services Stakeholders Group in attendance were:

● Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula

● Dr. Saipale Fuimaono - Director of Public Health (DOH)

● Scott Anesi - CEO of LBJ Hospital

● Panisia Neueli - Director for Human and Social Services (DHSS)

● Louise Kuaea - Director of Medicaid

● Adrian Vasai - Director for Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)

● Dora Ah Sue - Director for Office of Protection and Advocacy for the Disabled (OPAD)

● Va’a Tofaeono - Executive Director for the American Samoa Cancer Coalition

● Tafā Tua-Tupuola - State Director of Pacific Centre in Human Security

● Bethany Malae-Toelupe - Executive Advisor for Health & Human Services- Office of the Governor