The Fijian government currently has no plans to establish a dedicated cancer treatment hospital in the country. Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu informed Parliament on Thursday that key treatment options are already available in major hospitals.
As part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) involving Aspen and Healthcare Fiji Ltd, it was proposed that a radiotherapy center would be established at Lautoka and Ba Hospitals. Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that setting up such a center is a costly endeavor.
He mentioned that while the radiotherapy center plans are in place, existing treatment methods will continue to be offered. The Ministry of Health is reviewing the Radiation Health Act of 2009 to facilitate the introduction of radiotherapy services in Fiji.
Dr. Lalabalavu added that the ministry is collaborating with Lautoka Hospital and the International Energy Agency on a project aimed at establishing a radiotherapy treatment center there. He highlighted that aligning local legislation with international standards is essential for the successful introduction of these services. The necessary reviews and preparations are currently underway.