The Ministry of Health has announced that it will utilize a $4.6 million grant from the Japanese government’s Economic and Social Development Programme to procure additional medical equipment. This funding aims to enhance healthcare services for patients and provide essential training for medical staff.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu expressed optimism about the potential impact of the grant, stating it will significantly reduce geographical barriers to healthcare access. The grant will fund the establishment of two mobile health units, including a mobile dental truck that will deliver preventative care, screenings, and essential dental treatments to students and communities in rural and remote areas. This initiative addresses critical gaps in healthcare services for these populations.
Additionally, Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that a significant portion of the grant will be allocated to improving training for Fiji’s future healthcare professionals. The introduction of adult ventilator training models aims to ensure that medical staff are well-prepared to provide life-saving respiratory support before they handle real-life situations in intensive care settings. Moreover, the inclusion of virtual life-section tools will enhance the educational experience for medical trainees and nurses, moving beyond traditional learning methods and offering a deeper understanding of human anatomy.
The Ministry is also committed to ensuring the sustainability of this initiative by integrating the operational and maintenance costs of the new equipment into its annual budget. This strategic planning will provide lasting benefits and improve healthcare delivery for the people of Fiji in the long term.
Leave a comment