In 2022 and 2023, Fiji’s Ministry of Health experienced a significant loss of staff, with 280 medical officers resigning, leading to a shortage of senior specialist doctors. This year alone, 15 doctors have left their positions.
Dr. Basharat Munshi, the outgoing President of the Fiji Medical Association, shared this information during the association’s 63rd annual conference at the Hilton Resort on Saturday. He expressed concern over the seniority of the departing doctors, stating, “We have doctors who have been trained, and who are specialists. That calibre of people leaving hurts us.”
Dr. Munshi noted that a large number of these doctors have transitioned to the private sector, indicating a notable trend of attrition both domestically and abroad. He suggested that the Ministry of Health should conduct a survey to better understand the factors influencing this trend.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu acknowledged the impact of these resignations on healthcare delivery in primary health settings and major hospitals. However, he pointed out that the rate of resignations has decreased this year. “The pull factors, we can’t compete with. It’s about improving working conditions, remuneration, and, over time, listening to their concerns and addressing them,” Dr. Lalabalavu stated. He emphasized the need to tackle both push and pull factors to enhance the quality of healthcare services.