Bridging the Digital Divide: Fiji’s Healthcare Connectivity Challenge

A notable nine percent of healthcare facilities in Fiji currently lack internet connectivity, according to Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa. He attributed this connectivity gap largely to geographical challenges, which significantly impact healthcare delivery in those areas. Additionally, around 18 percent of facilities are equipped with low-bandwidth connections, hindering their operational effectiveness.

Ravunawa emphasized the critical role of digital health in improving healthcare services. He shared that the Ministry is in the process of implementing its Digital Health Strategy for 2023-2027. This initiative aims to enhance the integration and interoperability of various information systems in use, specifically addressing the needs of healthcare facilities and professionals. The focus on better digital connectivity aligns with previous discussions about the necessity of upgrading Fiji’s health infrastructure, particularly in rural and maritime regions.

Past reports have stressed the urgent need for better communication tools within Fiji’s health sector. Connectivity issues have created obstacles for healthcare professionals, often forcing them to rely on personal mobile phones or community Wi-Fi hotspots to access vital information, thereby complicating patient care management.

Encouragingly, recent efforts such as the successful deployment of Starlink Internet service at the Nasau Health Centre in Nalawa, Ra, demonstrate meaningful advancements in connectivity. This initiative is a community-driven project that aims to enhance healthcare communications for over 4,000 residents, significantly improving access to care and reducing the travel burden on patients seeking medical services.

As the Ministry of Health ramps up efforts to tackle these connectivity issues, it highlights the importance of investing in digital health infrastructure. This commitment is crucial for ensuring effective healthcare delivery in Fiji, fostering hope for improved health outcomes in underserved regions across the nation.