The Ministry of Health is prioritizing the retention of medical professionals as it faces challenges with the migration of doctors and nurses to more lucrative opportunities abroad. Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu acknowledged the difficulty in competing with enticing offers from international employers, but emphasized the ministry’s commitment to enhancing working conditions, including salary increases for healthcare workers.
“The Government has ensured a pay increase for nurses and all civil servants,” stated Dr. Lalabalavu. He noted that doctors already receive the highest salaries among civil servants upon completion of their training, and efforts are underway to enhance the compensation for allied health personnel as well.
Career advancement for medical staff is another focus for the Government. “We are facilitating the training of medical specialists in various fields to improve our tertiary healthcare system,” Dr. Lalabalavu said, highlighting the upcoming introduction of neurosurgeons, cardiologists, nephrologists, and other specialists in Fiji. He also mentioned that the specialization of nurses is being supported to provide them with clear pathways for career development.
Furthermore, Dr. Lalabalavu pointed out that workforce planning is a key area of focus, in collaboration with development partners. “Together with the WHO, we are undertaking a comprehensive workforce assessment for the entire ministry. This initiative aims to ensure we achieve the right number of doctors, nurses, and allied health staff, which will help alleviate the current high rates of burnout in many health sectors.”
Dr. Lalabalavu attended a meeting with the Fiji Medical Association in Nadi yesterday to engage in important discussions regarding the ongoing challenges faced by the healthcare sector.