Fiji’s healthcare sector is set to receive a significant boost with a substantial allocation of $466 million in the 2025-2026 National Budget for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. This funding is geared towards enhancing public service delivery and improving access to essential medicines.
According to Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad, the allocation will cover the salaries of healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, and will be invested in upgrading health facilities and ensuring a robust supply chain for necessary drugs and equipment. “This is a budget that puts people first,” Professor Prasad remarked during the budget announcement, emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing public health and prevention.
Key initiatives in this budget include:
– An emphasis on primary and preventive healthcare.
– Significant upgrades to hospital pharmacies and procurement systems.
– Introduction of new medicine tenders and an online tracking platform, MSupply, to help prevent stock outs.
– A supply agreement with the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission to provide more affordable and quality-assured medicines.
Furthermore, the continuation of a free medical scheme, partnered with 64 private general practitioners, dentists, and laboratories, is designed to ensure that vulnerable populations, including social welfare recipients and pensioners, have access to essential healthcare services without financial burden.
This forward-thinking approach follows a broader strategy to address previous issues related to medicine shortages, as outlined by the Minister for Health in prior discussions. With the establishment of warehouses aimed at better managing medical supplies, the government is taking proactive steps towards overcoming challenges faced within the healthcare system.
Overall, these efforts reflect a hopeful trajectory towards enhancing Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure and services as the government focuses on creating a more resilient health system. With a commitment to public health and support for accessible healthcare, there is potential for significant positive outcomes for all Fijians in the upcoming years.
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