Fiji is facing a significant shortfall of hospital beds, with a need for 3,000 beds to adequately serve its population. This issue was brought to light by Dr. Basharat Munshi, the outgoing president of the Fiji Medical Association, during the association’s 63rd Annual Conference held at the Hilton Resort.
Dr. Munshi emphasized that there is currently a shortage of between 1,500 to 2,000 beds. He estimated that to build the necessary facilities to provide quality care would require an investment of approximately $4.46 billion.
The situation at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM) has raised particular concerns, especially regarding the recurring issues in its operating theaters. Dr. Munshi pointed out that the hospital is unable to perform elective surgeries and can only prioritize emergency cases due to limited theater space. Patients requiring elective procedures find themselves on lengthy waiting lists, although some operations have been conducted at the Oceania Hospital to help alleviate the backlog, though this incurs additional costs.
The breakdown of essential equipment, such as the CT scanner, leads to outsourcing, further straining the hospital’s budget. While acknowledging that solutions take time, Dr. Munshi expressed hope that the CWM Master Plan, which was recently launched, will address the pressing issues faced by healthcare facilities.
Minister for Health Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu also indicated that the CWM Master Plan would focus on resolving these challenges.