The ongoing shortage of staff accommodation at health centres across the Northern region remains a significant concern, according to Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa. He emphasized that this issue is a longstanding challenge that the Government is actively addressing through its capital development plans.
Ravunawa expressed gratitude to development partners for their support in enhancing infrastructure throughout the Northern Division and across Fiji. He noted that many health facilities either require substantial renovations or need additional housing to accommodate the increasing number of staff members.
In some instances where accommodation is scarce, staff members may have to share living quarters. For example, it has become common for two nurses to share a two-bedroom unit, which is coordinated with the matron or director of nursing to ensure a comfortable living environment.
The Assistant Minister mentioned that ongoing discussions aim to enhance living conditions for healthcare workers, which is essential for ensuring that they can deliver optimal care to patients. With a commitment towards improving these conditions, there’s hope for a more sustainable and supportive environment for healthcare professionals in the region.

Leave a comment