Communities across Fiji are set to gain from a nationwide expansion of radiology services, with portable ultrasound machines now being introduced at 13 health facilities, including Valelevu Health Centre, Nausori Health Centre, Makoi Health Centre, Tamavua, CWMH Paediatrics, Labasa, Navua, Tavua, Rakiraki, Sigatoka, Lomaloma, Lakeba and Rotuma.
Training for health staff began this morning to ensure the new machines are used effectively and to boost early detection and treatment, especially in remote and maritime areas where access to diagnostic services has been a challenge.
Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa said the investment would have a direct and positive impact on people’s health, stressing that the initiative ensures people everywhere can access timely and quality healthcare. “The training provided today will empower our health professionals to save lives and support better health outcomes,” he noted.
The expanded radiology services are expected to enable communities across Fiji to receive faster diagnoses and treatment, strengthening access to essential healthcare and contributing to improved health outcomes nationwide.
Context and outlook
This rollout follows ongoing efforts to strengthen radiology and diagnostic services across the country. It complements recent developments such as Savusavu Hospital’s restoration of its Digital Portable X-Ray Machine, which helps residents avoid long trips to other facilities for X-ray services. The broader trend toward upgrading radiology capabilities, including plans for new X-ray installations in Savusavu and the upgrade of other imaging equipment, signals a sustained push to modernize Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure and bring essential services closer to communities.
What this means for residents
– Faster access to ultrasound imaging can improve triage, obstetric care, and emergency assessments in both urban and remote settings.
– Training ensures that healthcare workers can operate the new equipment safely and effectively from day one.
– The initiative aligns with a wider national commitment to enhance diagnostic services and reduce travel burdens for patients seeking imaging care.
Additional notes for readers
This expansion is part of a broader pattern of investments in radiology and diagnostic equipment across Fiji, including earlier and ongoing enhancements to X-ray and CT capabilities at other facilities. As these systems come online and training continues, communities can look forward to more timely and accessible health services.
Summary
A nationwide move to equip 13 health facilities with portable ultrasound machines, paired with staff training and a commitment to rapid, accurate diagnosis, marks a significant step toward equitable health access across Fiji. The initiative builds on recent improvements in radiology services and reflects a hopeful trajectory for improved patient outcomes in the years ahead.
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