Fiji’s healthcare system is facing a significant shortage of hospital beds, with an estimated shortfall of between 1,500 to 2,000 beds necessary to adequately serve the country’s population. This concern was raised by Dr. Basharat Munshi, the outgoing president of the Fiji Medical Association, during the association’s 63rd Annual Conference at the Hilton Resort.
Dr. Munshi emphasized that for the current population, a total of 3,000 beds is required. He identified that to upgrade and build the appropriate facilities to provide high-quality care would cost approximately $4.46 billion.
In addition to the bed shortage, Dr. Munshi pointed out ongoing challenges at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM), particularly regarding the operating theater situation. He indicated that the hospital is unable to perform elective surgeries due to limited theater space, which is currently reserved for emergency cases. Due to this limitation, elective procedures are being postponed, although some are being conducted at Oceania Hospital, which incurs additional financial strain on the healthcare budget.
The breakdown of essential equipment, such as CT scanners, also adds pressure, as services are outsourced, further straining resources. While Dr. Munshi acknowledged that improvements take time, he expressed hope that the recently launched CWM master plan would address these pressing issues.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu confirmed that the CWM master plan aims to tackle these challenges head-on.