TWO years after the arrival of a much-needed CT scan machine at Labasa Hospital, the vital piece of medical equipment remains unusable as the hospital waits for the release of funds to power it up.
The hospital’s medical superintendent, Jaoji Vulibeci, said the delay was entirely outside the hospital’s control.
“We’re currently waiting for a power upgrade to make it operational,” he said.
“That falls under the ministry’s responsibilities.”
Dr Vulibeci said the machine, which has been physically installed at the hospital, cannot function without a critical power upgrade, specifically, the installation of a new transformer.
“It’s likely related to the approval process for funds, which can be slow. Again, this is beyond our control. The hospital has done its part. We’re just waiting for the transformer installation.
“I understand that there’s a fund, and we’re currently working through the government processes to access it. I’m not sure what stage they’re at now.”
The CT scan machine has now been sitting idle for two years, he said, despite public speculation that it was yet to be delivered.
“The CT scan machine is already physically installed at the Labasa Hospital. Some people are under the impression it’s not installed, but it is.”
With no operational CT scan service in the entire Northern Division, he said emergency cases continued to be referred to Suva.
“We’re hoping this will be resolved soon, possibly even this week.”
He said the hospital pays for the patients’ airfare, while patients pay for their own meals and accommodations.
