Fiji’s Bold Steps Toward Safer Healthcare: A Global Commitment Unveiled

The Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, has highlighted Fiji’s commitment to patient safety at the 7th Global Ministerial Summit on Patient Safety held in Manila, Philippines. During his address, he emphasized Fiji’s alignment with the Global Patient Safety Action Plan 2021-2030, reinforcing the country’s dedication to ensuring safe and respectful care for all patients.

With the summit’s theme, “Weaving Strength for the Future of Patient Safety,” Ravunawa detailed Fiji’s historical and ongoing emphasis on clinical governance that began in 2005. This approach, documented through the Risk Management Policy and Framework, has undergone revisions to meet evolving healthcare demands, including updates in 2019 and 2021.

To bolster its healthcare system, Fiji’s Health Ministry has initiated mandatory patient safety training, improved infection control methods, conducted clinical audits, and digitized incident reporting systems. Looking forward, the focus remains on advancing clinical governance and integrating national regulations with the Global Action Plan’s standards.

Ravunawa noted the establishment of the National Clinical Governance Committee, which meets quarterly to oversee the implementation of safety measures across health facilities. Future strategies aim to enhance patient safety by implementing stronger regulations and standards that align with global recommendations.

In light of recent discussions within the health sector—such as those led by Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, who emphasized infrastructure and healthcare workforce challenges—it is apparent that these efforts align with a broader strategy to improve overall health outcomes in Fiji. The government’s initiatives signal a proactive stance against the pressing issues facing the healthcare system, fostering hope for meaningful advancements in patient safety and healthcare quality.

The collaborative efforts underscored in these initiatives offer a hopeful outlook as Fiji continues to invest in strengthening its health system, aiming to achieve improved care and safety for all its citizens.