Government remains committed to improving and enhancing healthcare services in Fiji.
In response to a letter to the editor from Joeli Tuiveikau II of Sabeto, Nadi, urging the Government to address the neglected health infrastructure in Nadi and Sigatoka – important centres of the tourism industry, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that the Government, through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Ministry of Finance, had been working collaboratively with stakeholders and partners to identify opportunities to strengthen existing health facilities.
He said they were also looking at the feasibility of establishing modern, purpose-built hospital in the country and along the tourism corridors, that meet international standards and are responsive to the growing needs of the area.
Mr Rabuka said this work included assessing:
- Demographic trends and population health data in the region;
- The seasonal health demands associated with tourism;
- Partnerships with private sector investors and international development partners;
- Opportunities for technology-enabled health services such as telemedicine;
- And ongoing technological development and advancement in health.
He said the current redevelopment project of the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH), funded by the Australian Government was an example.
“Through extensive assessment and consultation, the project has produced a Clinical Services Plan and Infrastructure Priority Implementation Plan, and maintenance works will commence shortly with the $F18million funding provided for this project.
“The next phase for the project is the development of the CWMH masterplan towards the new hospital.
“These large development projects do require time for planning and require strategic resourcing.”
Mr Rabuka said as part of our broader health sector reform and infrastructure development strategy, the Government was committed to ensuring equitable access to quality health care across the country.
“The Western Division and particularly its tourism centres, will not be left behind.
“For now, Government has prioritised the improvement and strengthening of the existing health infrastructure in the Western Division and around the country while these big development planning continues.
“Government has so far allocated $11.9m in the last three years for ongoing maintenance and repairs of all our health facilities.
“We are seeing the changes and improvements, and these efforts will continue.”
He thanked the public for continuing to raise their voices on this issue, and assured them that their concerns would being taken seriously.
“The Government will continue to inform the public once the necessary planning, cost analysis, and consultation have been completed.”
