A recent landslide near Savusavu Hospital has created serious safety concerns and stalled major upgrade plans for the facility.
Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa said the landslide affected an area used by public health staff and posed significant occupational health and safety risks.
“It has delayed any major structural expansion or reconfiguration of the existing hospital buildings until the ground is stabilised and cleared,” he said. In response to queries from this newspaper, Mr Ravunawa said the safety of staff is now a priority for both the Health and Public Works ministries.
“I witnessed firsthand the dedication of our health workers who continue to serve the community under very difficult conditions,” the minister said.
During his tour he met doctors, nurses, and other frontline staff who continue to show commitment and compassion despite challenges with infrastructure, manpower and basic resources.
“We discussed key issues affecting service delivery, including infrastructure, human resources, accommodation, fleet support, medical supplies, and future development plans,” Mr Ravunawa said.
He also briefed staff on the ministry’s ongoing legislative reviews and Fiji’s national direction in strengthening primary health care and progressing toward universal health coverage.
