The Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM) in Fiji is experiencing significant challenges, with only two of its eight operating theatres currently operational. This limitation is causing considerable delays for patients awaiting surgeries, as medical staff have been compelled to prioritize emergency cases. Many individuals seeking treatment are facing waiting times extending into weeks or even months.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu has attempted to alleviate concerns, stating that some surgeries are being outsourced to private hospitals to help manage urgent cases while patient care remains ongoing. He emphasized that efforts are underway to reopen additional theatres, asserting, “But in terms of backlog, we also at times do outsourcing of theatre time to the private sector, and that assists us in the backlogging of this.”
Dr. Lalabalavu further disclosed that improvements are on the horizon, with new equipment being installed and consultants continuously reviewing cases to ensure that urgent surgeries receive the necessary attention, despite the setbacks stemming from ongoing structural repairs. Remarkably, he mentioned that it is not uncommon for all operating theatres at CWM to be non-functional at the same time, citing that only three to four theatres are in operation currently, with four more nearing the completion of renovation.
The situation has created tension for both patients and healthcare providers, as reliable sources indicate this limited availability is raising stress levels. This ongoing predicament at CWM is exacerbated by recent claims that a severe power outage had previously disrupted crucial procedures, further compromising care delivery. Dr. Josese Turagava, chief pediatric surgeon at the hospital, has voiced similar concerns regarding the reliability of power systems, particularly during critical times like hurricane seasons.
However, amidst these challenges, there is a beacon of hope. The introduction of a master plan aims to address long-standing infrastructure issues in Fiji’s healthcare system. This plan, along with community advocacy for reforms, sparks optimism for potential enhancements in healthcare delivery. Both medical professionals and the public remain dedicated to ensuring that the necessary improvements are made to create a more effective healthcare system in the future, signifying a resilient spirit in the face of adversity. This collective push for change assures that the health needs of Fiji’s population will not be overlooked, fostering the hope for a more robust and accessible healthcare framework.
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