A TOTAL of 686 patients have received free medical services aboard Indonesia’s naval hospital ship, KRI dr Wahidin Sudirohusodo-991, during its five-day visit to Fiji, with registrations reaching the daily quota by the third day.
Home staff member at the Indonesian Embassy in Fiji, Aldino Mohamach, said it was unfortunate that the registration quota had been reached but hoped more Fijians could benefit if the vessel returned.
“Unfortunately, we have reached our quota, but if the ship comes again then we will invite all Fijians,” he said.
Patients were transported from Sukuna Park to the vessel after their names were verified, allowing them to access consultations and treatment from the ship’s medical team.
The Ministry of Health confirmed the daily patient quota was set at 259, with services operating from 8am to 4pm.
The medical team included cardiologists, obstetricians, internists, optometrists, dentists and general practitioners.
Patients also received free medication through the vessel’s on board pharmacy.
Equipped with advanced medical technology, including blood-testing equipment, the ship has performed more than six minor surgeries in a day since arriving in Fiji.
Procedures included lymph node removals and the removal of minor tumours.
The vessel arrived on October 9 as part of Indonesia’s humanitarian mission, Bridging Nations, Serving Humanity, aimed at strengthening regional ties and improving access to healthcare across the Pacific.
Mr Mohamach said the team had also undertaken community engagement activities, including social work and the distribution of medical supplies.
Fiji is the second stop on the mission, with the ship scheduled to depart tomorrow for the Solomon Islands.
