Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MOHMS) relies significantly on the Fiji Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services (FPBS) to oversee the distribution of essential medicines and medical supplies throughout the country. The FPBS serves as the sole warehouse for the ministry, ensuring that over 200 health facilities are equipped with vital medicines, vaccines, medical equipment, and other health products.
Amid rising media inquiries regarding medical supply shortages—primarily due to global supply chain disruptions—the ministry recently conducted a media tour of the FPBS warehouse to provide clarity about its operations. Fiji’s reliance on international suppliers becomes evident as the nation lacks the capacity to produce many medical supplies locally. When medicines arrive, they are sent to the FPBS for processing and distribution, which is increasingly affected by global logistical issues, including manufacturer delays and transportation difficulties.
FPBS director Jeremaia Mataika stressed that the distribution process is well-structured, with monthly deliveries to most health facilities, while more remote locations receive supplies quarterly. The budget for FPBS has grown significantly, rising from over $60 million to approximately $95.2 million, illustrating the increasing demands of the healthcare sector.
The procurement of medical supplies adheres to the Financial Management Act and government procurement regulations. For purchases exceeding $50,000, FPBS follows a formal tender process to secure suppliers, allowing for contracted prices that can be maintained for up to three years. The organization collaborates with the Medicines Regulatory Authority to ensure that all procured medicines meet safety and efficacy standards.
A significant development in the FPBS’s operations has been the adoption of the M-Supply system, a digital inventory and procurement management platform. This technology enables health facilities, including those in remote areas, to electronically place orders, improving supply chain accuracy and efficiency. With assistance from the Australian Government, M-Supply has been implemented across all 230 health facilities in Fiji.
To tackle logistical challenges, FPBS is planning to expand its warehouse capacity, with new facilities proposed for the Northern and Western divisions. The lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted a focus on building additional warehouses and pre-stocking critical items to prevent future distribution issues.
Mataika emphasized the FPBS’s commitment to not only stocking healthcare facilities but ensuring they are supplied with high-quality medicines. The Medicines Regulatory Authority works alongside the National Medicines and Therapeutics Committee to uphold an essential medicines list, guaranteeing that only the most effective treatments are available to patients.
Despite the ongoing challenges of global shortages and logistics, the ministry remains dedicated to procuring and distributing lifesaving medications. Looking ahead, the FPBS aims to enhance its supply chain through improved inventory management, strategic stockpiling, and continued digitization of operations. Increased support from international partners and a strengthened local logistics framework will facilitate better access to medical supplies for all Fijians, regardless of their location.
This commitment to improving the healthcare supply chain not only serves to address current shortages but also lays the groundwork for a more resilient healthcare system in Fiji moving forward. As FPBS continues to innovate and adapt, Fijians can be hopeful for a future where access to essential healthcare resources is assured.
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