The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has confirmed that outpatient pharmacy services will no longer be provided at Lautoka and Ba Hospitals, a move it says aligns with the Concession Agreement signed between the Government and Health Care (Fiji) Pte Ltd, operator of the two hospitals.
In a press release issued yesterday, the Ministry clarified that the Concessionaire is “not responsible for providing outpatient medicines,” prompting a realignment of services to the national network and the Free Medicine Scheme.
“This decision was made to comply with the Concession Agreement, not due to budget constraints,” the Ministry stated in response to widespread public backlash and growing concerns from health professionals.
Under the revised system, patients will now need to access prescription medicines from approved pharmacies participating in the Free Medicine Program. However, critics, including the Fiji Medical Association warn that many of these outlets lack the capacity and stock to meet the sudden surge in demand, particularly for critical and high-cost medications.
The Ministry said all participating pharmacies must meet licensing and safety standards and that oversight is in place, with non-compliant pharmacies facing potential removal.
“We are committed to ensuring that no patient is left behind,” the statement read. “Prescription drugs will continue to be provided at no cost through the Free Medicine Scheme and government facilities.”
