The Kavala Health Centre in Kadavu has made a significant leap into the digital age by becoming the first health facility in Fiji’s Eastern Division to be connected via Starlink internet. This new development, announced by the Ministry of Health, aims to enhance telehealth services, streamline patient referrals, and provide ongoing training for healthcare workers. Positioned about 90 kilometers from Suva, the Kavala Health Centre serves approximately 3,800 residents through three local nursing stations—Gasele, Vacalea, and Naqara.
Following the earlier digital upgrade of the Nasau Health Centre in Ra, Kavala Health Centre is now the second facility to benefit from improved connectivity in Fiji. This initiative is part of a broader push by the Ministry of Health to address connectivity challenges affecting rural and maritime communities. Around nine percent of healthcare centers in Fiji still lack internet access, with many others struggling with low-bandwidth connections, as reported by Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa. The integration of digital health capabilities is essential for better healthcare delivery, especially in less accessible areas.
The Ministry also plans to implement more rural facility upgrades across the country, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing health outcomes for Fiji’s underserved populations. Past initiatives, like the successful Starlink rollout at Nasau Health Centre, have demonstrated the positive impact of community-driven projects aimed at improving healthcare communication and access.
With advancements like these, the future looks optimistic for Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure. Enhanced connectivity not only fosters better health services but also contributes to community resilience and overall well-being. As more rural health centers are equipped with similar technologies, the potential for improved health services and community engagement grows, promising a brighter future for many rural residents in Fiji.
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