A proposal has been introduced advocating for the adoption of hotel management practices within public hospitals throughout the country. Jackson Mar, a Nadi resident and former hotel executive, articulated this suggestion during a recent National Budget public consultation in Korovuto. He highlighted the urgent need for reform, as many hospitals are currently plagued by cleanliness and maintenance issues.
Mar, who has extensive experience managing large hotels, emphasized that a substantial transformation is necessary for hospital operations. He pointed out that essential medical equipment is often not functioning properly and underscored the importance of having full-time maintenance staff, similar to what is found in the hotel industry. “Government cannot simply contract out maintenance; we need our own skilled team available 24/7,” he asserted.
Responding to Mar’s comments, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad recalled that CWM Hospital previously had its own maintenance team, underscoring the need for consistent upkeep to avoid further deterioration of hospital infrastructure.
This topic aligns with ongoing discussions regarding the state of public hospitals in Fiji, particularly the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH). Recent conversations have focused on the urgent need for enhancements due to challenges like overcrowding and inadequate facilities as noted by various community advocates. The Australian government has pledged $14.7 million towards a redevelopment plan for CWMH, which offers a glimmer of hope for much-needed improvements.
The call for better hospital management reflects a broader sentiment within the community that acknowledges existing problems while simultaneously expressing optimism about potential reforms. As stakeholders push for a healthcare system that meets the needs of all citizens, the integration of best practices from industries like hospitality could lead to significantly improved patient care and maintenance standards across Fiji’s healthcare facilities.
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