Concerns emerged after a blockage in the operating theatre at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM) led to reports of sewage spilling into one of Fiji’s key surgical facilities, raising public alarm regarding the hospital’s safety and hygiene standards. As the largest referral center in the country, any issues at CWM are met with serious scrutiny.
Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services, Penioni Ravunawa, addressed these concerns, clarifying that the situation was serious but did not constitute a sewage leak. Instead, the problem stemmed from an isolated blockage within the sluice room, an area designated for cleaning surgical instruments. This blockage caused a backflow of water into the theatre and an adjacent room. Ravunawa noted that while the incident was accidental, it was also avoidable.
Dr. Alipate Vakamocea, president of the Fiji Medical Association, commented on broader systemic issues within Fiji’s healthcare system. He highlighted that medical staff are already experiencing increased pressure, with operational capacity reduced from 50 percent to just 25 percent due to ongoing challenges. The Ministry of Health faces significant strain, complicating timely responses to such incidents.
Fortunately, operations in the affected area were able to resume within two and a half days, with all functioning theatres operational and four newly refurbished operating rooms nearing readiness. Ravunawa confirmed that hospital staff, alongside a cleaning company, effectively managed the situation, restoring normal operating standards approved by the Infection Prevention and Control Committee.
The incident has also led to a reassessment of waste protocols. Unexpected findings, including foreign objects such as surgical instruments and linen in the waste line, have raised alarms regarding potential sabotage within hospital operations, an issue Ravunawa stated would be addressed decisively.
This latest setback reflects ongoing challenges at CWM Hospital, evident in recent incidents like power outages that interrupted surgeries and highlighted existing infrastructure inadequacies. Although the Health Ministry allocated $15 million for renovations, medical professionals have reported that progress on critical repairs has been slow over the past two years.
Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Cambodian Health Minister, has taken proactive steps to reassure the public regarding enhancements in healthcare delivery, indicating a commitment to long-term solutions to these systemic issues.
Despite the myriad challenges facing Fiji’s healthcare system, there remains a sense of hope and resilience among the community and medical professionals advocating for essential reforms. The initiatives in progress, including a comprehensive master plan for the hospital, signal an optimistic outlook for a strengthened healthcare system aimed at meeting the needs of all citizens.