The $2.2 million pharmaceutical warehouse located in Labasa’s Northern Division is facing operational challenges due to electricity constraints, which have prevented it from functioning at full capacity. This was disclosed by Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, following reaffirmation from Dr. Jaoji Vulibeci, the medical superintendent at Labasa Hospital. Despite officially opening in March this year, the facility is currently optimized only for storing fast-moving medical supplies and vaccinations, with the full utilization hindered by inadequate power supply.
Dr. Lalabalavu explained that while some storage capabilities are in place, the warehouse primarily accommodates essential medical supplies to ensure that health centres and nursing stations across the Northern Division receive timely distributions. The intent behind establishing the warehouse was to decentralize medical supplies, a necessity that became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted vulnerabilities in the previously centralized supply chains concentrated in Suva.
The warehouse aims to serve as a critical resource for approximately 65 healthcare facilities in the region and is positioned to benefit about 150,000 residents. While there are concerns regarding the power issues impacting operations, the situation underscores an important proactive approach to bolster healthcare logistics in Fiji, marking a significant step toward improving access to medical supplies and fostering community health in the Northern Division.
Efforts to resolve the power constraints are essential to leveraging the full potential of this facility. Furthermore, the establishment of this warehouse reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery through international partnerships, as illustrated by funding support from the Japanese government. With ongoing developments and improvements in infrastructure, there is optimism for better health outcomes for the people in the region.
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