Bula Si’a! My name is Tsuyoshi Ishizawa, a JICA Volunteer serving in the Clinical Governance Unit at Labasa Hospital. With 14 years of experience as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist specialising in infectious diseases and infection control, and I am honoured to share my transition from Japan’s snowy Yamagata to Fiji’s tropical climate.
My work focuses on implementing the Japanese 5S–KAIZEN–TQM methodology, derived from the Toyota Production System and adapted for healthcare. The 5S are — Sort, Set, Shine, Standardise, Sustain — it helps create an organised environment where abnormalities are quickly noticed.
This forms the foundation for continual improvement (KAIZEN) and ultimately total quality management (TQM). The activities we carry out include conducting regular ward rounds to assess 5S adherence, managing medical supply inventory by checking expiry dates, and facilitating workshops to build staff capacity and strengthen understanding of the methodology.
Through practical examples, he highlights how simple actions such as labeling and color-coding medications reduce errors and enhance patient safety.
I have high praises for the dedication and motivation of Fiji’s healthcare staff, their enthusiasm and positive attitudes is a daily inspiration.
While 5S may seem small, it has transformative potential in shaping the future of healthcare quality and safety in Fiji.
n Tsuyoshi Ishizawa is a JICA volunteer
Conducting regular ward rounds in the Emergency Department at Labasa Hospital. Picture: SUPPLIED
Facilitating 5S workshop for Labasa Hospital. Picture: SUPPLIED
