A routine electrical upgrade at Navua Hospital has revealed significant structural and compliance failures, drawing immediate concern from the government regarding the facility’s safety, which serves thousands of residents from Serua, Namosi, and Rewa. Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, indicated that what began as a minor electrical project has escalated into a comprehensive review of the hospital’s infrastructure due to major building code violations discovered by teams from the Public Works Department (PWD).
Mr. Ravunawa emphasized the importance of addressing the issues, stating, “What started as a small issue grew bigger as we discovered problems with the workmanship carried out during the hospital’s initial construction. There are numerous issues related to the building code and structural integrity that simply cannot be ignored.” The integrity of the hospital, vital for the Central Division’s residents, has now become a top governmental priority.
Despite the ongoing upgrade works, essential services at the hospital remain operational. The outpatient services and clinics for maternal and child health continue to provide care, and steps have been taken to minimize disruptions. Mr. Ravunawa reassured that any potential interruptions in services would be promptly addressed.
This incident is reflective of broader challenges within Fiji’s healthcare system, akin to those faced at the maternity ward earlier this year, where structural weaknesses led to the relocation of patients to the administration block. Similar situations at Tavua Hospital have spotlighted systemic issues, with the Ministry of Health advocating for substantial investment—around $4.6 billion—into modernizing healthcare infrastructure throughout Fiji. Recent proactive measures demonstrate a commitment to improving the healthcare landscape, reassuring the public about the government’s resolve to prioritize patient safety and investment into health services.
Overall, while the current circumstances highlight substantial infrastructural concerns, they also foster hope for a future of enhanced healthcare quality and safety as ongoing projects are positioned to revitalize the healthcare system in Fiji.
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