Retaining healthcare professionals is a significant challenge for the Ministry of Health as it struggles with the emigration of doctors and nurses seeking better opportunities abroad. Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu acknowledged that while the ministry cannot match the enticing offers from foreign employers, efforts are underway to enhance working conditions and increase salaries for both doctors and nurses.
Dr. Lalabalavu noted that the government has implemented pay raises for nurses and all civil servants. He mentioned that doctors are already receiving the highest salaries among civil servants right after completing their training. The government is also focused on improving pay for allied health workers.
Career advancement and development are also priorities for the government. Dr. Lalabalavu stated that they are facilitating training for medical specialists in various fields to enhance tertiary care services. He highlighted that Fiji will soon have more neurosurgeons, cardiologists, nephrologists, and other specialists, along with promoting specialization among nurses to create more career development pathways.
Additionally, Dr. Lalabalavu pointed out that workforce planning is a key area of focus, with collaboration with development partners ongoing. In partnership with the World Health Organization, the ministry is conducting a comprehensive workforce assessment to ensure an adequate number of doctors, nurses, and allied health staff, which is crucial for reducing burnout rates currently affecting the health sector.
Dr. Lalabalavu recently discussed these pressing challenges with members of the Fiji Medical Association in Nadi.