Opposition Member of Parliament, Penioni Ravunawa, has called for close examination of the public-private partnership behind the $90 million funding for the Ba and Lautoka Hospital.
In addressing the 2024-2025 National Budget, Ravunawa raised concerns about the impact of private entities like Aspen Medical in managing public health resources, particularly regarding equitable access and the affordability of care.
“While the government’s budget for the health sector in Fiji for the next financial year includes some promising elements, as an opposition representative, I cannot ignore the glaring deficiencies and inconsistencies,” said Ravunawa.
Ravunawa acknowledged that residents of Lautoka and Ba are benefiting from high levels of patient satisfaction and advanced secondary and tertiary healthcare. However, he emphasized the necessity for completing all remaining paperwork associated with this business transaction.
He further stated that it is the coalition government’s responsibility to ensure transparency and accountability to the taxpayers and the general public.
The Opposition MP also urged the Government to extend the free healthcare scheme under the General and Dental Practitioner initiative to the Northern, Eastern, and Western regions of Fiji.
Ravunawa praised this program, noting that it alleviates pressure on the public health system, reduces waiting times, and improves the quality of medical and dental services.