Fiji is currently facing a shortfall of 2,000 hospital beds, according to the president of the Fiji Medical Association (FMA), Dr. Basharat Munshi. During the 63rd FMA Annual Conference held in Nadi, he highlighted that to provide adequate healthcare in public hospitals, the country must expand its capacity significantly to accommodate its increasing population.
Dr. Munshi pointed out that developing medical infrastructure is a substantial financial undertaking, estimating the cost to be approximately $4.6 billion in Fijian currency. He emphasized that while the government is not expected to inject this amount into the healthcare system immediately, it represents the necessary investment needed for future improvements.
He noted that ongoing challenges will persist if current healthcare resources do not meet the demands of the population. One example he mentioned is the persistent issues with the operating theatre at CWM Hospital, which limits the ability to perform elective surgeries. Currently, the facility can only handle emergency cases, complicating treatment options for patients needing elective procedures. While some elective surgeries are being conducted at Oceania Hospital to alleviate the backlog, this is incurring additional costs.
Dr. Munshi also raised concerns about equipment failures, such as the breakdown of CT scanning machines, which necessitates outsourcing services and places further strain on the healthcare budget.
In response, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, acknowledged the challenges within Fiji’s healthcare system that require urgent attention. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to enhancing health standards, with a primary focus on strengthening public health and primary healthcare systems.
The conference will conclude today.