Introduction: A resilient health system depends on skilled human resources capable of addressing interconnected health challenges at the community level. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), specialist medical training has been managed by National Department of Health (NDoH). However, rising demands in provincial settings have compelled Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs) to take on a more active role. Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority (MBPHA) initiated it's own scholarship program in 2013, aiming to build local specialist capacity. This study investigates the financial investment by MBPHA in specialist training, recognising that the availability of trained personnel improves patient outcomes, reduces external referrals, and strengthens local health systems. Methodology: A retrospective cost analysis was conducted on six specialist trainees supported by MBPHA across seven training programs at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). Data were collected through structured questionnaires and validated by MBPHA's Human Resource and Finance departments. All direct costs incurred during the training period were analyzed. Results: The total expenditure for the six candidates amounted to PNGK 4,121,133.00 (USD 1,014,829.00). Costs include: salaries and allowances: PNGK 1,734,460.00 (USD 421,300.33), Rental accommodations: PNGK 1,682,739.00 ( USD 408,737.00), Tuition fees: PNGK 129,308.00 (USD 31,408.91), Gratuities: PNGK 338,000.00 (USD 82,100.20), Recreational leaves: PNGK 79,100.00 (USD 19,213.39), Relocation costs: PNGK 33,400.00 (USD 8,112.86), Book and equipment costs: PNGK 28,000.00 (USD 6,801.20), Conferences participation: PNGK 47,200.00 (USD 11,464.88), Overseas attachments costs: PNGK 15,000.00 ( USD 3,628.89), and Graduation costs: PNGK 34,026.00 ( USD 8,264.92). On average, the cost per specialist was PNGK 588,733.29 (USD 144,975.57). Conclusion: The strategic investment by MBPHA in developing its own cadre of medical specialists demonstrates a sustainable model for workforce development in PNG. The total cost of the specialist training exceeded PNGK 4 million ( USD 1 million) which is a substantial expenditure but these locally trained professionals have directly improved service delivery, reduce inter-hospital referrals, and enhanced health outcomes. By empowering provincial-level capacity, this approach embodies the One Health principle- supporting human health through locally- led, system-wide strengthening of care within the ecological and social realities of PNG.
James et al. (Thu,) studied this question.