The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, has established a committee aimed at tackling the increasing health issues affecting both young people and senior citizens. A statement from the Ministry of Health emphasized Dr. Lalabalavu’s commitment to enhancing public health and ensuring that every community member receives the necessary care.
The committee, co-chaired by Permanent Secretary for Justice, Selina Kuruleca, includes representatives from various government ministries and departments such as health, education, and social services. This collaborative approach aims to foster inclusivity in addressing health challenges. The Ministry also noted the inclusion of various non-governmental organizations and faith-based groups, whose grassroots perspectives are crucial in bridging the gap between available services and the community’s needs.
The objectives of the committee include developing educational programs, implementing prevention measures, and facilitating easier access to healthcare services, all designed to enhance community well-being. This proactive stance is likely to produce positive outcomes for public health, contributing to a more resilient healthcare system.
Previously, Dr. Lalabalavu expressed concerns about the mass departure of healthcare professionals from Fiji’s public sector, underscoring the global shortage of healthcare workers as a serious issue affecting Fiji’s health workforce. To combat this, the government implemented various strategies, such as increasing the retirement age and addressing salary discrepancies to retain healthcare professionals.
As he aligns the Ministry’s strategies with the forthcoming National Development Plan, Dr. Lalabalavu seeks to ensure that improved healthcare services remain a priority. The establishment of the new committee is a hopeful development in the ongoing efforts to fortify healthcare accessibility and address the challenges faced by both the young and elderly in the community.
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