The Fijian government does not plan to establish a dedicated cancer treatment hospital in the country. During a parliamentary session on Thursday, Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu stated that most cancer treatment options are already available within the major hospitals.
He explained that, through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Aspen and Healthcare Fiji Ltd, Lautoka and Ba Hospitals were intended to set up a radiotherapy center. Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized the high costs associated with establishing such a facility.
The minister mentioned that to facilitate the delivery of radiotherapy services in Fiji, the government is reviewing the Radiation Health Act of 2009. He confirmed that the ministry is collaborating with Lautoka Hospital and the International Energy Agency on plans for a radiotherapy treatment center.
Additionally, a multisectoral team is currently reviewing the existing legislation to align it with international standards, which is essential for introducing radiotherapy services in the country. Dr. Lalabalavu assured that these efforts are ongoing.