Women with high-risk pregnancies are expected to receive faster, safer and more advanced care following the opening of a new fetal scan unit at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva.
The unit was funded through a $125,000 investment by the International Women’s Association (IWA).
The IWA-MFM Fetal Scan Unit includes a state-of-the-art 3D ultrasound machine and was officially handed over to the hospital’s Ante-Natal Clinic yesterday.
The new service is designed to improve detection of complications in pregnancy and strengthen care for women most at risk.
IWA president Judy Compain said the facility builds on the organisation’s High Risk Clinic established in 2018.
“This new facility strengthens care for women with high-risk pregnancies, including those living with diabetes or HIV,” Ms Compain said.
“With advanced 3D ultrasound technology, clinicians can detect complications earlier, intervene sooner, and ultimately save lives.”
The technology is also expected to ease pressure on the Children’s Hospital, including the neonatal intensive care unit, by identifying and managing complications before birth.
Ms Compain acknowledged the doctors, midwives, nurses and clinic staff supporting the initiative, as well as partners who assisted with the project, including the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, the Katalyst Foundation and contractors involved in the build.
“Small actions done with sincerity can create big changes,” she said, adding that the unit will serve thousands of mothers and babies in the years ahead.
