UNION Minister for Health Dr Thet Khaing Win attended the farewell and donation ceremony for the Samaritan’s Purse International Relief medical team yesterday on behalf of the Chair of the National Disaster Management Committee. The American medical team had completed emergency healthcare operations following the recent earthquake.

Attendees observed a minute of silence for earthquake victims. In his speech, the Union Minister noted that over 350 hospitals and clinics were damaged, and the government declared a state of emergency by inviting international humanitarian aid. A total of 28 medical teams from 17 countries, including Samaritan’s Purse, supported Myanmar’s response.

Samaritan’s Purse collaborated with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Defence to open a temporary field hospital at Shwekyapin Sports Ground Nay Pyi Taw from 5 April. The facility treated over 5,000 patients and performed 303 surgeries.

The organization also provided solar lights, water purifiers, and household items for 5,000 affected families. The field hospital has now been officially transferred to the Ministry of Health. The Union Minister expressed gratitude on behalf of the government and people of Myanmar.

Samaritan’s Purse leaders Mr John Melton and Mr Peter Horst discussed their emergency healthcare efforts and the handover process. The donated facility includes emergency wards, operating theatres, a pharmacy, a laboratory and water purification systems valued at approximately US$1.5 million.

MNA/KZL

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