For decades, Nazarene General Hospital has served as a place of healing and hope for communities across the Highlands. Since 1967, the hospital has functioned as the primary healthcare facility for approximately 400,000 residents of Jiwaka Province and surrounding areas. In addition to addressing physical health needs, the hospital is committed to providing spiritual care, reflecting its mission to serve the community with compassion and Christ-centered ministry.
The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency surgery, maternity care, family medicine, and palliative care. Through these services, the medical team works to demonstrate God’s love while providing quality healthcare to those who may otherwise have limited access to medical treatment.
Missionaries Serving in Many Roles
The mission community surrounding the hospital includes individuals serving in various capacities, from doctors and nurses to teachers, administrators, and volunteers. Among those currently serving is missionary Ella Slibeck, who has been at the hospital since June 2025.
A graduate of Olivet Nazarene University with a degree in biology, Ella Slibeck is spending a gap year in Papua New Guinea before returning to the United States to begin medical school. During her time at the hospital, she has assisted with administrative projects while also shadowing doctors in several specialties, including surgery, obstetrics, and family medicine. In addition to her work in the hospital, she teaches physical science at the local high school, contributing to both the medical and educational ministries within the community.
Her experience reflects the many ways missionaries support the broader work of the hospital, helping strengthen its ability to serve the people of Papua New Guinea.
Daily Life on Mission
Each day at the hospital presents new challenges and opportunities for meaningful service. The daily rhythm often begins with patient rounds, during which physicians evaluate patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Throughout the day, doctors may perform surgeries, operate clinics, and address the many needs of patients seeking treatment.
Working in the Nazarene General Hospital requires both medical skill and deep compassion. The team regularly navigates the realities of limited resources and significant healthcare needs, yet the work is also marked by powerful moments of healing, gratitude, and connection with patients and families.
These experiences remind many who serve there that the mission extends beyond medical treatment. It is also about offering hope and care in ways that reflect Christ’s love.
Reflections from Medical Leaders
Dr. Mark Crouch, Medical Education Coordinator, shared his reflections on the deeper meaning of the work:
“Through it all, I’ve learned that this work is about far more than what we accomplish as doctors—it’s about the lives we touch, the relationships we build, and the way we reflect God’s love in a place that is desperately in need of it. I’m reminded daily that I am here because this is where God has placed me, with the skills and heart to serve the people of Papua New Guinea. This is where I’m meant to be, and every challenge and every victory only deepens that truth for me.”
Dr. Daniel Dyer, the Director of Medical Services, also reflects on the rewarding yet challenging nature of his work.
“As I walk through the hospital or head out on rounds, I’m reminded why I’m here—why each week I pour out my life in hours of work at the hospital and in administration. These people are so beautiful and kind, hardworking and industrious in the face of immense hardship. It is a blessing to join my Savior in caring for them and learning from them.”
He continues,
“While the work can be tough—whether it’s handling medical crises, managing hospital administration, or navigating the complexities of daily operations—there is no greater reward than witnessing the lives of our patients transformed. It is in these moments, both the small victories and the challenging ones, that I am reminded of the profound impact of our service here.”
A Calling to Serve
Serving at Nazarene General Hospital is more than practicing medicine; it is a calling that combines professional expertise with compassionate ministry. Doctors, nurses, missionaries, and volunteers work together to care for patients physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Each day brings new challenges, yet it also offers opportunities to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who seek care. For many who serve in this setting, the experience deepens their faith and strengthens their sense of purpose.
For those who feel called to medical mission, the hospital provides a place where faith and medicine intersect. The work may be demanding, but the impact is profound as lives are touched through both healing and hope.
“Nazarene Health Ministries provides quality health services for the people of PNG to show the love and transforming power of Christ.”
—Ella Slibeck, missionary in Papua New Guinea
