The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has addressed recent claims regarding a strike by Radiology and Pharmacy staff at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, stating that these allegations are unfounded. They clarified that while the hospital is currently facing a shortage of qualified personnel in these departments, the staff have not gone on strike.
Due to the staffing limitations, service hours for both the Radiology and Pharmacy Departments are now set from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. For urgent radiological needs after hours, the hospital can refer patients to approved private providers as necessary. The Ministry is actively discussing options to provide these services over the weekend, and updates will be communicated to the public once arrangements are finalized.
The reduced staffing is partly due to the Ministry of Civil Service’s recent Circular 14/2024, which impacts overtime compensation for civil servants, particularly those in lower salary bands. This has contributed to an overall shortage of available staff, as many Allied Health professionals are taking Time-Off in Lieu (TOIL). The Ministry of Health is currently consulting with the Ministry of Civil Service to find solutions to the workforce challenges impacting public health services.
The Permanent Secretary for Civil Service, Parmesh Chand, expressed a commitment to working with the Ministry of Health to address these concerns, with a meeting scheduled to discuss strategies for maintaining a sustainable workforce and ensuring continued health service delivery.
Recognizing the ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector, the Health Ministry has begun engaging with various stakeholders, including two local universities that offer health training programs, to devise sustainable strategies for the long-term needs of the health workforce in Fiji. The anticipated health workforce plan is expected to be finalized and launched in early 2025.
This proactive approach is a sign of hope for the healthcare system in Fiji. By seeking collaboration with educational institutions and government agencies, the Ministry of Health is laying the groundwork to enhance service delivery and better support both staff and patients moving forward.
In summary, while the Colonial War Memorial Hospital is currently experiencing staff shortages, the situation is being actively addressed through collaboration between ministries and stakeholders, with a focus on sustainable solutions for the future.
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