Opposition Member of Parliament, Penioni Ravunawa, has called for closer examination of the public-private partnership that funds the Ba and Lautoka Hospital project with $90 million.
In his response to the 2024-2025 National Budget, Ravunawa expressed concerns over the involvement of private entities like Aspen Medical in managing public health resources, emphasizing potential issues surrounding equity in access and affordability of care.
“While the government’s budget for the health sector in Fiji for the next financial year presents some promising elements, as a representative of the opposition, I cannot overlook the glaring deficiencies and inconsistencies,” Ravunawa stated.
He acknowledged the positive feedback from Lautoka and Ba residents, who have enjoyed excellent customer service and advanced healthcare services. However, he stressed that all remaining documentation related to this business arrangement must be completed.
Ravunawa emphasized that it is the coalition government’s responsibility to ensure transparency and accountability to taxpayers and the general public.
Additionally, the Opposition MP urged the Government to expand the free healthcare scheme under the General and Dental Practitioner initiative to the Northern, Eastern, and Western regions of Fiji. He praised the program for relieving the burden on the public health system, reducing wait times, and enhancing the quality of medical and dental services.