The Coalition Government is preparing to introduce its new National Development Plan, which aims to provide fresh direction and optimism for development in Fiji. This announcement was made by Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu during his speech at the Fiji Medical Association Annual Scientific Conference held in Nadi yesterday.
Dr. Lalabalavu expressed the Ministry’s eagerness to align its strategies with the new National Development Plan, focusing on building a resilient health system that leverages innovation and technology to deliver high-quality, evidence-based health services. He emphasized that these efforts contribute to the vision of fostering a healthy population in Fiji.
Additionally, he highlighted the Cabinet’s approval of the National HIV Surge Strategy, which is expected to be officially launched soon. Dr. Lalabalavu called for the Association’s support and collaboration in implementing this strategy, noting that it requires a cooperative approach among various stakeholders to effectively combat the spread of HIV in communities.
He acknowledged that the health sector, particularly public health, has faced numerous significant challenges over recent years, including issues related to infrastructure, staffing, quality of services, and health financing. Dr. Lalabalavu pointed out that since taking office approximately a year and a half ago, the Coalition Government has been clear and proactive in its policy priorities, aiming to tackle these challenges through collaboration, innovation, and decisive actions to enhance healthcare in Fiji.