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ASG on the search — again — for a new veterinarian

child with dog at vet clinic
Dr. Kahl leaves her contract over reimbursement issues
Joyetter@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Department of Health is advertising for a new U.S. certified Veterinarian after Dr. Barbara Kahl left the territory this week — 11 months after coming to the local Veterinary office. 

She served just short of one year of her two-year contract with the Department of Health.

Samoa News was unable to get comments from the Director of Health, Motusa Tuilaeama Nua, however reports from lawmakers are that Dr Kahl was unhappy with the procurement process in terms of reimbursing her money when she purchases medication and equipment for the Veterinary Clinic.

Dr Kahl arrived on island in March 2022, from Oregon where she had been a veterinarian since 2006 after 9 years of study for veterinarian medicine. Prior to her 16 years as a certified veterinarian, she spent over 15 years working in the tech industry — focusing on finance and accounting.

A hearing before the House of Representatives last year cited that despite equipment and supplies being limited, what they have on hand is functional, workable and the people easily know how to get to their location.

Unlike some prior veterinarians,Dr. Kahl was approved to administer any drug, including Category 2 drugs.

According to the DoH’s advertisement, the Vet shall perform examinations, treatments, and surgeries for the animals of the territory; recommend and implement projects and policies which will accomplish program objectives on animals both domestic and farming; and advise animal owners about sanitary measures; feeding and general care to promote health of animals.