The government currently has no intentions to establish a dedicated cancer treatment hospital in Fiji. During a recent parliamentary session, Health and Medical Services Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu explained that most treatment options are already available in major hospitals across the country.
He noted that under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Aspen and Healthcare Fiji Ltd, there are plans for Lautoka and Ba Hospital to set up a radiotherapy center. Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized the financial challenges associated with establishing such a facility.
He stated, “Establishing a radiotherapy center is a fairly costly exercise. Through PPP arrangements, Lautoka and Ba Hospital are set to create a radiotherapy center, while still maintaining existing treatment options.”
To facilitate the provision of radiotherapy services in Fiji, the government is reviewing the Radiation Health Act of 2009. Dr. Lalabalavu mentioned ongoing collaboration with Lautoka Hospital and the International Energy Agency to advance the radiotherapy treatment center project.
Furthermore, a multisectoral team is actively working on the review of the Radiation Health Act, which is essential for the introduction of radiotherapy services in Fiji. The minister highlighted the need for local legislation to meet international standards, assuring that efforts are currently underway to achieve this alignment.