The Minister for Health, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, emphasized that the government is committed to addressing the challenges faced by the health sector through clear policy priorities. These priorities focus on infrastructure, workforce, quality healthcare services, and health financing.
Dr. Atonio noted that the public health sector bears the majority of the healthcare responsibilities in Fiji, collaborating closely with the private sector to enhance the health and well-being of all Fijians.
In a move to strengthen primary healthcare, the ministry is finalizing a Public Health Care (PHC) strategy in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other stakeholders. This strategy aims to clarify the functions of primary healthcare at various levels, particularly in combating communicable diseases and enhancing the resilience of the health system extending from nursing stations to sub-divisional hospitals.
Furthermore, Dr. Atonio highlighted the endorsement and implementation of two national policies: the School Health Policy and the Early Childhood Development Policy. These initiatives, developed in collaboration with relevant ministries, are designed to promote and protect health among children.
In terms of improving health infrastructure, the ministry has completed various projects over the past 18 months, enhancing facilities at clinics and hospitals, updating staff accommodations, and improving water and power supplies. A medical boat has recently been delivered to the Visoqo Nursing Station, enabling better access to coastal communities.
Dr. Atonio acknowledged the ongoing global shortage of healthcare workers that poses challenges in Fiji. Many healthcare professionals have transitioned to better opportunities abroad or within the private sector. In response, the government has initiated strategies to retain and attract workers, including raising the retirement age, addressing salary discrepancies, and providing salary increases for healthcare personnel.
He also mentioned the new National Development Plan (NDP), which aims to guide future development in Fiji. The ministry looks forward to aligning its efforts with this plan, striving towards a resilient health system that embraces innovation and technology to provide high-quality, evidence-based health services, ultimately contributing to the vision of a healthier population in Fiji.