The Ministry of Health in Fiji is currently grappling with staff shortages that have resulted in reduced service hours at key facilities, including the Ba Health Centre and Tavua Hospital. Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, the Permanent Secretary for Health, confirmed that these staffing constraints are related to ongoing human resource challenges faced by the ministry.
Dr. Tudravu emphasized the significance of these facilities within the Western Division and acknowledged that the public has raised valid concerns about access to healthcare services. He highlighted the ministry’s efforts to deliver health services effectively despite the limitations: “When we have adequate human resources, we can extend the number of service hours. Unfortunately, we’ve lost staff for reasons beyond our control, impacting our ability to provide extended hours of care.”
In the past, the ministry had successfully extended operational hours at the Ba Health Centre and Tavua Hospital, with some facilities operating until 10 PM. However, as staffing levels dropped, adjustments in service hours have been necessary. The situation is viewed as an ongoing issue in health service delivery, and the ministry is committed to addressing these challenges.
This staffing issue is part of a broader context within Fiji’s healthcare sector, where concerns about workforce capabilities and resource allocation have been prevalent. Discussions have been ongoing between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Civil Service to devise sustainable solutions. These include consultations with health training institutions to develop a comprehensive health workforce plan scheduled for launch in early 2025.
While the current circumstances are challenging, they reflect an opportunity for improvement and collaboration within Fiji’s health system. As the ministry works towards rebuilding and reinforcing its workforce, there is hope that these efforts will lead to better healthcare service delivery and ultimately meet the needs of the Fijian population.
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