The president of the Savusavu Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Avikash Pillay, has expressed concern over the malfunctioning X-ray machine at the Savusavu sub-divisional hospital, which has been out of service for over two months. Pillay noted that although the business community is prepared to assist in addressing the issue, they require direction from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
The X-ray machine was reported as semi-functional starting in July but has not been operational since October of last year. Local resident Ilisapeci Bola highlighted the inconvenience posed by the situation, explaining that patients must seek medical imaging services at Zens Medical Centre due to the hospital’s technical issues. She emphasized the importance of the facility, as it serves a vast population, including those from the Prime Minister’s village.
Local entrepreneur Aren Nunnink, after inspecting the machine, discovered that it requires a software upgrade. He stressed the urgency of resolving this matter, particularly in emergency situations like car accidents that could occur during the night when access to an X-ray could be critical. Nunnink has offered to finance the necessary repairs using a local engineer capable of completing the task quickly.
Despite attempts to reach health authorities for assistance, Nunnink reported that he encountered a lack of response, citing that relevant officials were unavailable due to annual leave. He, along with other local businesses, remains ready to help, but frustrations persist regarding communication and action from the health ministry.
An email was sent to the Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, on December 30, requesting updates, but no response has been provided yet. In the recent 2024-2025 National Budget, Finance Minister Biman Prasad allocated a substantial $12 million for improvements at Labasa Hospital and other health facilities, including the Savusavu health center. However, the ongoing issue with the X-ray machine highlights a pressing need for timely action and communication to ensure that vital medical services are available to the community.
This situation underscores the importance of collaboration between local businesses and government authorities to address public health needs efficiently. With the budget allocated for health improvements, coupled with the eagerness of local organizations to assist, there is hope that swift actions will follow to restore critical medical services in Savusavu.
Summary:
The Savusavu Chamber of Commerce is urging the Ministry of Health to address the long-standing issue of a non-functional X-ray machine at the local hospital. Local businesses are willing to assist in repairs, but have faced challenges in communication with health authorities. With significant budget allocations for health infrastructure, there is optimism that this issue will soon be resolved, reinforcing the community’s commitment to ensuring access to essential medical services.
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