The Fiji Medical Association (FMA) described the late Permanent Secretary for Health, Dr Jemesa Tudravu, as a “lighthouse, mentor and friend” to the medical profession.
In a statement, FMA President, Dr Alipate Vakamocea, said Dr Tudravu dedicated his life to improving healthcare in Fiji and made lasting contributions through both clinical and leadership roles.
“Dr Tudravu had dedicated his life to the medical profession in Fiji and had been a member of the executives of the Fiji Medical Association for over a decade,” Dr Vakamocea said.
Dr Tudravu began his career as an orthopaedic surgeon at Lautoka Hospital before moving into senior administrative roles, including Medical Superintendent at Lautoka and the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Chief Medical Advisor, and later Permanent Secretary for Health.
“His career has been one of service and quiet accomplishments,” Dr Vakamocea said, noting that Dr Tudravu also helped negotiate one of the largest salary increases for doctors in the region — a benefit still enjoyed today.
He described Dr Tudravu as “a silent but decisive leader who always carefully considered every detail before making a decision,” adding that colleagues relied on him “when the way became unclear or when we had lost our direction altogether.”
“The medical profession has lost a lighthouse, mentor and friend. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him,” Dr Vakamocea said.
