DILI, 08 April 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta met with representatives from the Timor-Leste Hearts Fund at the Presidential Palace today, expressing his support for initiatives aimed at improving cardiac healthcare across the nation.
The meeting included Jane Williams, CEO of Timor-Leste Hearts Fund, and Dr. Herculano Seixas dos Santos, Head of Cardiology at the National Hospital Guido Valadares.
During the meeting, discussions centered around a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan dubbed “Healthy Hearts in Timor” which aims to enhance cardiac healthcare services throughout the country.
Williams highlighted their focus on improving professional training for cardiologists and cardiac nurses in Timor-Leste, with workshops planned across northern and southern regions this week.
Meanwhile, Seixas dos Santos emphasized the ongoing collaboration with Australian partners and the progress made in treating various cardiac conditions locally, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment.
He detailed support already received, including donations of cardiography machines, pacemaker programmers, and other essential cardiac equipment.
The President indicated full support for the program and the work being done at the National Hospital in Dili.
Williams expressed appreciation for the President’s backing and assistance as they move forward with collaborative efforts alongside the Ministry of Health to develop this strategic plan for cardiac health in Timor-Leste.
“Untreated heart disease is one of the biggest health challenges in Timor-Leste. That’s why we’re partnering with the Ministry of Health and heart health professionals in Timor-Leste to build local capacity and skills to diagnose and treat patients,” said Timor-Leste Heart Funds.
TATOLI
