The Labasa Hospital’s operating theatre has been facing issues with roof leaks during heavy rainfall, a situation that has been accentuated by the wet season as noted by Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa. He highlighted that the persistent rains, typically prevalent from November to April, can exacerbate the conditions of older buildings.
Dr. Jaoji Vulibeci, the hospital’s medical superintendent, confirmed that the recent heavy downpours have revealed multiple problems with the operating theatre, primarily due to water infiltration. “The operating theatre now has a lot of issues coming up,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need for repair.
A renovation of the operating theatre had been anticipated over the past two years, but financial limitations stalled progress. Dr. Vulibeci pointed out, “Due to financial reasons, we exhausted our minor works allocation. As you know, most of the structures are old, and they need constant renovation.”
In the interim, hospital officials are considering temporary repairs to maintain operational capability in the theatre while they explore funding options for comprehensive renovations. The hope is to address these pressing issues swiftly, ensuring that patient care is not compromised as authorities work on securing long-term solutions.
This situation underscores the importance of timely maintenance and investment in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in areas prone to extreme weather. With the right support and funding, Labasa Hospital is optimistic about enhancing its facilities and continuing to provide quality care to the community despite these challenges.
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