Fiji is currently facing a significant health crisis due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and weak health outcomes, according to a new World Bank report. The "Fiji Health Sector Review" suggests that the country should invest in a more robust and efficient health system.
Despite reducing its child mortality rate by almost half between 1975 and 2020, Fiji's healthcare system is grappling with high NCD rates, inadequate infrastructure, and an aging population. These issues hinder the sector's ability to prevent and manage diseases effectively.
NCDs are responsible for 80% of deaths in Fiji, with 64% of those affected being of working age. This situation costs the nation approximately US$260 million annually. Primary healthcare facilities are under-resourced, with hospitals like the Colonial War Memorial operating near full capacity. The uneven distribution of healthcare workers further strains major primary care facilities in urban areas. In some regions, one public health nurse serves up to 30,000 people. If current trends continue, health expenditures could increase significantly by 2050.
"This review shows that investing in a healthier Fiji is not just a health priority; it’s an economic imperative," stated Hon. Professor Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance. He emphasized the importance of transforming Fiji's health sector as part of their National Development Plan.
Hon. Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, Minister for Health and Medical Services, noted that the report was produced collaboratively with the World Bank and provides essential data for policy decisions. "We have already started to implement some of the policy recommendations," he said.
The report outlines actions to address the NCD crisis while promoting better future health outcomes for Fijians. These include redesigning primary healthcare services with modern facilities, accelerating digital health initiatives, integrating hospital networks with technology, improving NCD screening and registries, encouraging healthier lifestyles through tax policies, retaining skilled healthcare workers, enhancing public-private cooperation within the sector, and strengthening financial management.
Stephen Ndegwa from the World Bank highlighted their commitment to supporting Fiji's efforts against its health crisis: "By taking decisive action now...Fiji could not only add 10 years to life expectancy but also see significant economic gains."