The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has announced a significant upgrade to Fiji’s public health imaging services, with the phasing out of 15-year-old analog X-ray machines in favor of cutting-edge digital systems that incorporate Artificial Intelligence. This advancement represents a pivotal move towards modernizing the nation’s radiology services and enhancing diagnostic accuracy across the public health system.
Ratu Seci Takotavuki, the Senior Biomedical Engineer overseeing this initiative, emphasized that the outdated analog machines, many of which relied on manual film processing, are increasingly inadequate to meet the rising demands of patient care. The transition to modern technology is essential for keeping pace with healthcare needs.
The newly introduced fleet consists of 18 floor and ceiling-mounted digital X-ray units, which have been supplied by a recognized Chinese manufacturer and procured via a local supplier following a competitive public tender process. Installation of this state-of-the-art equipment is currently underway at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva, along with facilities in Nausori and Taveuni.
Moreover, the Ministry has confirmed plans to disseminate the remaining machines to major divisional and subdivisional hospitals, ensuring that even remote and rural health facilities receive access to advanced imaging technology. This upgrade is expected to greatly enhance healthcare delivery in Fiji, allowing for quicker and more accurate diagnostics, ultimately benefiting patients nationwide.
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