Navua Hospital’s inpatient and birthing unit has been temporarily closed due to concerns about the structural integrity of the facility, leading health officials to redirect patients to the CWM Hospital in Suva. The Ministry of Health announced this development in a statement, highlighting that these issues had been initially identified by staff in May of this year.
In March, reports indicated structural weaknesses in the maternity ward that necessitated the relocation of expectant mothers to the hospital’s administration block. At that time, Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, the permanent secretary for Health and Medical Services, expressed optimism for a long-term solution aimed at restoring the maternity ward and ensuring a safe environment for mothers and their newborns.
The recent decision to close the birthing unit has led to its current placement in the outpatient building, while inpatient care and obstetric services are now being handled at CWM Hospital. The Ministry of Health has assured the community that these changes were effectively communicated, and they are actively coordinating with the Ministry of Public Works and other stakeholders to undertake necessary assessments and repairs at the hospital.
Despite the closure of the inpatient and birthing unit, Navua Hospital continues to provide a range of primary health care services, including emergency services, maternal and child health services, outpatient services, radiology, laboratory services, physiotherapy, and dietetics. Clinics for family planning and maternal and child health are currently operating from the old Navua Hospital premises.
The team at Navua Hospital remains committed to addressing the health needs of the broader community, collaborating with local administrative offices and community leaders to ensure uninterrupted access to essential health services during this transitional period. They continue to support the health requirements of the communities in Serua/Namosi and Beqa, reinforcing their dedication to public health in the region.
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