MILLIONS of dollars have been spent by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services over the past five years outsourcing services to private providers.
While Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa did not have an estimated budget figure on hand, budget estimates show allocations for emergency ambulance services across the country.
In the 2025-26 financial year alone, at least $983,750 was allocated for emergency ambulance services in the Western, Northern and Eastern divisions.
Of this, $637,500 was allocated to the West, $290,000 to the North and $56,250 to the East.
Mr Ravunawa said private ambulance operators had played an important role in addressing gaps in the Government’s ambulance services.
“Unfortunately, I don’t have the figures with me. We thank the private ambulance services for filling in the gaps for the ministry,” he said.
He said the high cost of operating ambulance services remained a challenge for the ministry.
“The challenge remains, as operational costs are quite high.”
He said the Government was working with development partners to strengthen both road and sea ambulance services.
Fiji received six ambulances from the Government of Japan in June 2025, while similar assistance from India was expected.
“Proper handling by the ministry’s staff is always encouraged.”
He said the ministry’s fleet team had been reminded to monitor the performance of its stakeholders.
Despite Government spending and assistance from development partners, concerns remain over ambulance shortages at hospitals and health centres across Fiji.
