The government has earmarked $540 million for the health sector, with $90 million dedicated to the operation of the Ba and Lautoka hospitals under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme. Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad revealed a collaboration with the Australian Government, contributing $15 million to CWM Hospital infrastructure master planning. Talks with the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank are also underway regarding future funding.
Pacific Specialist Health Care and Sri Sathya Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital, among other private medical facilities, will receive $4 million. A further $19 million will be used to expand general practice services, with an estimated additional cost of $5 million.
There has been a budget allocation of $3 million to support dialysis patients through the continuation of the $180 per session subsidy, an increase from $150 million to $180 million. The budget also includes a $96 million allocation for purchase of drugs and medical equipment, with $15 million set aside for bio-medical equipment procurement.
An additional $12 million is allocated for interior renovations at Labasa Hospital, along with $3.8 million for minor upgrades and maintenance of all health facilities across the nation.
Health minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu expressed gratitude for the funding and said they are determined to make the most of the resources provided. He pointed out that funds allocation extends beyond their ministry, bringing into collaboration the Ministry of Public Works for infrastructure upgrade and Ministry of Civil Servants to boost workforce capacity.
Work is reportedly evolving on the hospital theatre at CWM Hospital, and the budget aims to facilitate further improvements in this facility along with Labasa Hospital and others in Fiji, upon its approval in this fiscal year.