The Fiji Medical Association (FMA) has strongly opposed a proposal in the draft Employment Relations Bill that would restrict workers to a list of “approved doctors” for medical certificates.
FMA president Dr. Alipate Vakamocea said the move would “undermine the integrity and independence of the medical profession” and “limit workers’ fair access to healthcare, especially in rural areas.”
“There are already clear accountability systems under the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act 2010 and the Fiji Medical Council to address any cases of fraudulent certificates,” Dr. Vakamocea said.
He added that Parliament should “strengthen existing processes rather than impose new restrictions that risk eroding public trust and workers’ rights.”
“The FMA remains committed to upholding the highest standards of medical ethics and professionalism,”
Dr. Vakamocea said, adding that the association welcomes dialogue on fair and evidence-based solutions.
