A NEW Clinical Services Plan was launched at the Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital in Suva on Tuesday by Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
As part of the CWMH Redevelopment Project, the plan was developed in collaboration with the hospital’s clinical staff to guide the development of the masterplan and help identify and address service challenges in the health sector.
“I’m honoured to return here today, to CWM (Hospital), to see our health partnership in action,” Ms Wong said.
“It provides a blueprint not only for the national hospital but also for strengthening services here at CWM.
“When I was here last August, doctors, nurses and patients told us what they thought needed to change. Together we’ve begun that work.”
Among the works done to date are the renovation of the acute patient ward, fixing of critical plumbing issues in the maternity ward, boosting water storage and repairing parts of the hospital roof to stop the leaks.
“These are practical improvements. A hospital staff spoke about a new management system that enabled much better assessments of patients that have led to lives being saved,” Wong said.
“Practical improvements make a difference — that’s what we want. They make a difference to health workers who come here every day to care for others, and a difference that shows we believe in the dignity of every patient.”
Minister for Health Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said Australia’s ongoing support had allowed for “meaningful reforms that are improving the services we deliver”.
“I am often asked, what makes our partnership with Australia work so well? The answer is flexibility. Whether it’s COVID, cyclones, or urgent health issues like the current HIV outbreak — Australia has stood with us.
“Fast, responsive, and without unnecessary red tape.”
Dr Lalabalavu said although the work was not completed yet, there were better systems in place and a skilled and growing workforce.
