Health workers at Savusavu Hospital on Vanua Levu are currently facing significant challenges as they manage congestion, limited space, and aging infrastructure while striving to provide essential services to the people of Cakaudrove. During a recent visit to the facility, Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa heard firsthand from the staff about their heavy workloads and the physical constraints they contend with in compromised conditions.
Minister Ravunawa acknowledged the urgent need for action, stating that the Ministry of Health would swiftly address these issues. This includes deploying additional staff temporarily to alleviate manpower shortages. He indicated that the hospital’s urgent infrastructure and equipment needs would be raised with the ministry’s central planning and capital works teams to facilitate quick resolutions.
The congestion across vital service areas, including the emergency department, outpatients, laboratory, radiology, dietetics, pharmacy, and medical records, has become a central concern. Notably, the surgical outpatient department is experiencing significant overcrowding. In addition to these challenges, hospital staff have reported issues such as roof leakages in certain areas, which the minister confirmed would be tackled through minor works scheduled to start soon, especially during the current rainy season.
While he acknowledged the various needs of the maternity and general wards, Mr. Ravunawa advised that major renovations and expansions would be postponed due to a recent landslide that affected parts of the hospital grounds.
Despite these challenges, the commitment of the health workers to maintain services is commendable. Moving forward, with focused attention and support from the Ministry, the situation at Savusavu Hospital may improve, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of the community it serves.
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