The president of the Savusavu Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Avikash Pillay, is urging the Ministry of Health to address the problem of a non-operational X-ray machine at the Savusavu sub-divisional hospital. The machine has not been functioning for over two months, with staff indicating that it functioned only semi-effectively since July and has been completely out of service since October of the previous year.
Pillay highlighted that the local business community is willing to help but requires direction from the Ministry’s headquarters. A patient, Ilisapeci Bola, expressed her frustration, noting the inconvenience of having to travel to Zens Medical Centre for an X-ray. This hospital is crucial as it serves the residents of Cakaudrove, including those from the Prime Minister’s village.
Local businessman Aren Nunnink investigated the situation and found that the X-ray machine merely requires a software upgrade. He emphasized the urgency of having the equipment functional for emergency situations, such as car accidents that occur outside of regular hours. Nunnink has offered to cover the repair costs and mentioned that a local engineer could fix the machine swiftly. Despite his attempts to contact authorities, he was informed that relevant personnel are currently on leave.
While an email sent to the Permanent Secretary of Health, Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, on December 30 for an update remains unanswered, the recent national budget allocated $12 million for improvements at the Labasa Hospital and other health facilities, which includes funds for upgrading the Savusavu health facility. An additional $3.8 million is designated for smaller upgrades across health establishments nationwide.
Unfortunately, the issue with the Savusavu X-ray machine persists unresolved.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by health facilities in rural areas, showing the critical need for timely communication and action from health authorities. Hopefully, the commitment to upgrade facilities mentioned in the budget will bring about beneficial changes for the Savusavu community soon, ensuring that vital equipment can be repaired and operational when needed.
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