Fiji’s Coalition Government Cabinet has approved the execution of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of Health and YWAM Ships Aotearoa Limited for the provision of medical services and supplies to remote nursing stations.
Dental services, primary healthcare services, and training to community health workers via the YWAM Ship will also be provided.
YWAM is a global movement of Christians from various countries, varying age groups, and cultures, dedicated to living their faith practically throughout the world.
The YWAM Ship provides free medical supplies to remote nursing stations, and provides free medical services mostly dental services, primary health care services such as health screening and health advice to the and also provides training to community health workers.
According to Cabinet, in August 2022, the first YWAM Ship mission in Fiji was commissioned through the ministry for the provision of free medical services to local communities in the Central Division and maritime provinces, including the Lau Group and outer islands of the Northern Division.
During this time, it stated they managed to screen 578 primary health appointments, conducted 635 dental treatments, performed 315 teeth restoration procedures, and 998 tooth extractions.
They also conducted educational sessions on oral health to 1164 villages within the 29 villages visited, and managed to train 10 community health workers, Cabinet stated.
The MOU will facilitate logistic arrangements, health service preparation and coordination for future YWAM missions in Fiji.
