A total of 280 medical officers resigned from Fiji’s Ministry of Health in 2022 and 2023, leading to a shortage of senior specialist doctors. This year alone, 15 doctors have stepped down.
Dr. Basharat Munshi, the outgoing President of the Fiji Medical Association, disclosed these figures during the association’s 63rd annual conference at the Hilton Resort on Saturday. He expressed concern regarding the seniority of the departing doctors, emphasizing that the loss of trained specialists negatively impacts the system.
Dr. Munshi noted that many of the resigning doctors have transitioned to the private sector, with a particularly noticeable trend in 2022 and 2023. He called for the Ministry of Health to conduct a survey to identify the “push” and “pull” factors influencing doctors’ exits.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu acknowledged the resignation issue and its significant effects on healthcare delivery in primary health settings and major hospitals. However, he pointed out that the rate of resignations has decreased this year.
“The pull factors are difficult to compete with. It’s about improving working conditions, remuneration, and continuously listening to and addressing their concerns,” said Dr. Lalabalavu. He stressed the importance of human resources in providing quality healthcare, asserting that tackling both push and pull factors is crucial.