Fiji’s healthcare system faces a significant shortage of hospital beds, with an estimated shortfall of 1,500 to 2,000 beds needed to adequately serve the nation’s population. This concern was raised by Dr. Basharat Munshi, the outgoing president of the Fiji Medical Association, during the organization’s 63rd Annual Conference held at the Hilton Resort on Saturday.
Dr. Munshi emphasized that Fiji requires a total of 3,000 beds to meet current healthcare demands. He highlighted the financial implications of upgrading facilities to provide optimal care, estimating that it would cost approximately $4.46 billion.
He also pointed out challenges at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM), particularly regarding recurring issues in operating theater availability. Dr. Munshi stated that the hospital is currently unable to perform elective surgeries, as it can only accommodate emergency cases. Some elective surgeries have been conducted at Oceania Hospital to manage the backlog, though this comes at an added cost.
Additionally, Dr. Munshi discussed the strain on the budget caused by outsourcing necessary services, such as when CT scan equipment breaks down. He expressed hope that the recently launched CWM master plan will effectively address these ongoing challenges.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu acknowledged that the master plan aims to tackle the pressing issues facing Fiji’s healthcare system.