The Coalition Government is poised to announce its new National Development Plan, aimed at providing fresh hope and guidance for development in Fiji. This was emphasized by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, during his address at the Fiji Medical Association Annual Scientific Conference 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 healthcare. This effort is part of the broader vision for a healthier population in Fiji.
Additionally, he noted the Cabinet’s approval of the National HIV Surge Strategy, which is expected to be officially launched soon. Dr. Lalabalavu urged the Association’s support and cooperation for the successful implementation of this strategy, which relies on collaboration among multiple stakeholders to combat the spread of HIV in communities.
He acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the health sector, particularly in public health, concerning infrastructure, human resources, quality of services, and health financing over recent years. Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that since the Coalition Government took office one and a half years ago, it has been committed to addressing these challenges directly through collaboration, innovation, and decisive actions aimed at improving healthcare across Fiji.