CHILD health care is every parent and guardian’s priority. Therefore, searching for the best health care the country has to offer should be at the top of their list.
For the Government, child health care services began in 2013 with the launch of the Child Health Policy and Strategic Plan 2012-2015 during Immunisation Week.
The launch was meant to strengthen immunisation among children nationwide.
Since then, dedicated campaigns and medical care health services have materialised prioritising the health and overall well-being of the child.
Which brings us to Dr Asena Tuiketei, a professional paediatrician who has dedicated her life to the noble cause of offering health and medical care to children.
With more than 15 years of experience as a paediatrician on her resume, Dr Tuiketei is the brains behind Pacific Babies Medical Practice in Nadi where parents and guardians looking for expert care for their children can seek her services.
Driven by her vision to prioritise the individual needs of the child and the family, Dr Tuiketei saw an opportunity to spend more time with parents, personalise treatment plans and focus on preventative care.
Her approach would bolster a strong parent-doctor relationship built on trust and open communication.
The 41-year-old paediatrician is passionate about creating a welcoming and creative space where families are heard, understood and empowered in their child’s health journey.
“My goal is to create a clinic that is not just a place for treating illness, but a centre for promoting child health and wellbeing,” said Dr Tuiketei.
“This includes offering educational resources, workshops and creating a network of support for parents.”
Her practice also offers Dr Tuiketei time and flexibility to work and dedicate time not only to her patients, but also her family.
“This clinic gives me the flexibility to be present for my own family while pursuing my passion for paediatric care,” she said.
She said that beyond treating common childhood illnesses, her clinic was also dedicated to supporting families.
Dr Tuiketei focuses on preventative care and wellness through well-baby clinics, immunisation and anticipatory guidance to prevent illness, identify developmental delays and work with families to provide awareness and resources to raise healthier children.
“My vision for our paediatric clinic in Nadi centres on creating a sustainable, impactful healthcare hub for families.
“I aim to bridge the gap in accessible, high-quality paediatric care by establishing a clinic that prioritises preventative medicine, early intervention and holistic child development.”
Dr Tuiketei also aims to work closely with families by encouraging clear communication.
“This is through active listening, providing clear explanations, having open dialogue and showing empathy and compassion.
“Building rapport with the children and their families, being respectful of family dynamics, culture, religion and maintaining confidentiality.
“We also foster building long-term relationships and continuous improvement via customer feedback, staying up to date with the latest medical knowledge and best practice in paediatrics and reflecting on our standards of service.”
Dr Tuiketei said maternal health care was also a service she was committed to.
“We offer prenatal breastfeeding classes led by an experienced paediatric team.
“We provide practical skills, emotional support and foster a nurturing community of shared experiences.
“We are investing in their future and the future of our Pacific babies. Supporting women accelerates action towards a healthier, stronger community.”
Working towards a healthier Fiji cannot be done in isolation, which is why Dr Tuiketei values the importance of partnership in the health sector.
“While I’m currently focused on establishing my clinic and providing direct care, I absolutely recognise the critical role of partnerships in enhancing child health in Nadi as no one can tackle health issues alone.
“This is something that is close to my heart.”
With experience in working with children in Tuvalu and other Pacific Island countries, Dr Tuiketei is also an executive committee member of the Pacific Paediatric Association and a member of the Fiji Medical Association and the Fiji Council of General Practitioners.
For the future, Dr Tuiketei envisions transforming Pacific Babies into a hub for quality healthcare for children.
“I envision a clinic that is deeply integrated into the Nadi community, working collaboratively with partners to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
“Pacific Babies is determined to make a huge impact on families in Fiji, especially in the West, and to help ensure a healthier future for Fiji’s next generation.”
