The increasing demand for services at St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva, Fiji’s sole psychiatric facility, has necessitated significant infrastructure enhancements. Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Atonio Lalabalavu, noted that St. Giles is among the oldest hospitals in the country, having been operational since 1884.
Dr. Lalabalavu highlighted that the hospital is now treating a growing number of patients across all age groups, which has put considerable pressure on its infrastructure. He pointed out that the facility has faced various climatic and operational challenges over the years, leading to considerable wear and tear.
In response to these needs, the ministry is seeking support from partner and donor organizations to establish a new facility aimed at incorporating modern treatment methods, thus improving mental health services throughout Fiji. The proposed new facility would enable the hospital to expand its specialties in areas such as addiction, psychiatry, and geriatrics, and to offer services like group therapy, psychodrama, lithium level testing, transcranial magnetic stimulation, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and geropsychiatry.
Dr. Lalabalavu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing mental health services for the population. He acknowledged that while St. Giles has the capacity to manage acute cases, gaps remain in post-treatment support for substance abuse. The government, through collaborations with development partners, is actively exploring ways to enhance long-term treatment solutions in this area. The ministry is focused on strengthening the hospital’s capabilities to provide comprehensive care for mental health patients.