The Ministry of Health and Medical Services plans to upgrade the Coqeloa Nursing Centre in Labasa into a full-fledged health centre.
Although the nursing station was renamed Coqeloa Health Centre a few years ago, it has lacked the necessary facilities to function as a true health centre.
Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, visited the centre last Friday with Divisional Medical Officer Northern, Dr. Tiko Saumalua, and stated that the centre’s upgrade had only been verbal.
“The upgrade to a health centre was only verbal, and the necessary infrastructure and support were delayed,” Dr. Lalabalavu said.
“We are now working to catch up.”
He assured the Coqeloa community and health staff that the ministry would prioritize the required infrastructure and support.
When questioned about the availability of funds for the necessary improvements, Dr. Lalabalavu confirmed that funds were available.
The centre serves around 3,000 people from eight villages and 21 settlements and is managed by two doctors and five nurses.