Fiji is currently facing a deficit of 2,000 hospital beds, according to Dr. Basharat Munshi, president of the Fiji Medical Association (FMA). At the 63rd FMA Annual Conference held in Nadi, Dr. Munshi emphasized that to ensure Fijians receive adequate healthcare in public hospitals, a significant increase in bed capacity is necessary to accommodate the growing population.
Dr. Munshi noted that the construction of medical infrastructure is a costly endeavor, estimating that it would require approximately $4.6 billion Fijian dollars to meet the current needs. He clarified that while there is no immediate requirement to invest this amount, it is essential for future developments to enhance the healthcare system.
He also mentioned that ongoing challenges would persist if the existing resources fail to meet the demands of the population. A recurring issue highlighted was the operating theater situation at CWM Hospital, which has affected the ability to perform elective surgeries. Due to space constraints, only emergency cases can be addressed, complicating the management of elective procedures.
To alleviate the backlog, some elective surgeries have been relocated to Oceania Hospital, although this option incurs additional costs. Additionally, Dr. Munshi pointed out that equipment malfunctions, such as breakdowns of the CT scanner, result in the need for outsourcing, which further strains the budget.
Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, acknowledged the challenges faced by Fiji’s healthcare system and the urgency to address them. He emphasized the importance of a robust public health and primary healthcare framework in establishing a solid healthcare system. The Ministry of Health is dedicated to enhancing health standards with a particular focus on these areas.
The conference is set to conclude today.