The healthcare system in Fiji is facing significant challenges, primarily due to years of neglect, as pointed out by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad. In a recent interview during the launch of the Fiji Health Sector Review, he confirmed the troubling trend in healthcare outcomes over the past two decades, a situation reflected in a report from the World Bank.
According to Professor Prasad, the government initiated this review due to escalating concerns regarding the deterioration of health outcomes. He highlighted the alarming increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as a direct consequence of the neglect experienced over the past 15 to 20 years. The report indicates that healthcare outcomes in Fiji were considerably better during the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, with a noted decline thereafter.
Professor Prasad not only described this situation as a public health crisis but also emphasized its economic implications. The burden of treating chronic diseases is straining the healthcare system and imposes significant costs on the country. He stated that investing more in public health, particularly in preventive measures, could lead to improved economic outcomes and lower overall healthcare costs.
Reflecting on past healthcare practices, he reminisced about the times when nurses provided routine follow-up care to communities, a preventive approach that has diminished with the shift towards a more reactive healthcare system today. This transition has led to an increase in hospital admissions and treatments that are considerably more expensive.
In response to these pressing issues, the government is planning major improvements to Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure. Initiatives include the construction of a super-specialty hospital supported by the Indian government, upgrades to the CWM hospital with assistance from the Australian government, and the establishment of a new national hospital intended to serve not only Fiji but also other nations in the Pacific, as noted by the World Bank country director.
This proactive approach demonstrates the Coalition Government’s commitment to enhancing health outcomes, which is a matter the Prime Minister has personally championed. By investing in healthcare, there is hope that the overall situation will improve, leading to a healthier population and a more robust economy.
In summary, Fiji’s healthcare system is at a critical juncture, and the government’s response could pave the way for a brighter future in public health. By returning to a focus on preventive care and modernizing facilities, there is potential for significant improvements in both health outcomes and economic stability.
Leave a comment