The Nacula Health Centre in Yasawa received a much-needed face lift to the tune of $400,000.
The new facility, commissioned by Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu, was made possible through funding provided by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
“This initiative is closely linked to provision of oxygen concentrators,, however, I am told that they will not only power the oxygen concentrator but also provide much needed electrical supply to the rest of the health facility and all the medical appliances within,” said Dr Lalabalavu.
“In Nacula and the other five sites, the electrical supply extends to the two staff quarters.”
Dr Lalabalavu said newly-installed solar panels would also power oxygen concentrators at the facility, marking a new service for the health centre.
“Facilitating round the clock availability of oxygen in health facilities will improve access to oxygen therapy for patients presenting with respiratory illness symptoms.
“The timely provision of oxygen therapy reduces death from severe pneumonia in children by 35 per cent and that is lifesaving in the initial treatment of acutely ill patients.
“As such the impact of these solar panels is not only in ensuring more comfortable living and working conditions for the staff.
“They also facilitate lifesaving health care for the people they serve.”
He said the solar panel for Kese and Nacula would benefit a population of more than 2000, including staff and guests of 14 resorts, seven primary and one secondary school.
“To the NZ First Secretary Mrs Sarah Nesbit and your team from the NZs Foreign Affairs and Trade, I take this time to thank you for your generous support in ensuring the Fiji Government through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services achieves its mission of having a healthy population.”
