A memorandum of understanding has been established between the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Youth with a Mission (YWAM) New Zealand, facilitating the arrival of volunteer healthcare professionals from New Zealand to provide services in Fiji’s maritime and rural regions.
During a recent parliamentary session, Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu announced that the 10-year agreement, ratified by the Cabinet on August 4 and August 7, aims to enhance service delivery and promote universal health coverage for underserved populations in Fiji.
Dr. Lalabalavu noted that YWAM would deploy their ship to assist the Ministry in these hard-to-reach areas, offering vital healthcare services including awareness campaigns, screenings, and dental care.
He emphasized the need for the Ministry to streamline various processes related to registrations, procurement, and customs in order to improve operational efficiency. Dr. Lalabalavu expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration, which has persisted through successive governments, highlighting its critical role in addressing primary healthcare needs in remote island communities.
When queried about the potential waiver for the temporary registration fees that volunteer doctors, nurses, and dentists must pay to the Fiji Medical and Dental Council, Dr. Lalabalavu indicated that the Ministry will consider this, particularly since most visiting teams return frequently. He confirmed efforts to explore ways to support these volunteers as they assist the local population.