Recent analysis reveals that Fiji’s health infrastructure has suffered enduring damage due to the 20 cyclones that impacted the nation between 2010 and 2022. The newly introduced Fiji Health Adaptation Plan (FHAP) 2024 – 2030 highlights the heightened risk posed to the nation’s health facilities from climate-induced disasters.
The FHAP emphasizes the growing vulnerability of both the population and healthcare systems to frequent extreme weather events, reflecting on the severe impacts of past storms. Out of the 20 cyclones, 16 health facilities bore significant damage, with three yet to be restored. Alarmingly, approximately 90% of Fijians reside in coastal regions, where about 41% of the healthcare facilities are located within 500 meters of the shoreline, and at least 27 facilities are alarmingly close, within 100 meters.
The launch of the FHAP is a proactive response from the Ministry of Health to address the long-term implications of climate change on health infrastructure over the upcoming six years. This plan signifies a commitment to build upon earlier strategies outlined in the Climate Change and Health Strategic Action Plan (CCHSAP).
By implementing 35 adaptation and mitigation actions across six core health system domains, the plan seeks to integrate climate change considerations into all Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) programs and policies, fostering a more robust approach to climate resilience and environmental sustainability within the healthcare sector.
This new initiative represents a hopeful step forward, illustrating how Fiji is adapting its health strategies in response to the undeniable effects of climate change. While challenges remain, the FHAP sets a strong foundation for enhancing the resilience of health infrastructures and ensuring the wellbeing of the population in face of future climate-related adversities.
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