Women in Fiji’s Northern Division have gained enhanced access to advanced gynecological care following a generous donation from the Friends of Fiji Health charity group. This contribution, which includes state-of-the-art hysteroscopy and laparoscopic equipment, positions Labasa Hospital as the first facility in the region to offer comprehensive hysteroscopy services outside Australia and New Zealand.
The introduction of these services is poised to facilitate early diagnosis and provide minimally invasive treatment for a range of conditions such as endometrial cancer, infertility, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Previously, women requiring these intricate procedures had to make arduous journeys to Suva or Lautoka, which often led to delays and the necessity for more invasive surgeries with longer recovery times.
Dr. Sunil Pillay, a gynecologist and member of Friends of Fiji Health, emphasized the advantages of these new procedures, stating, “In well-chosen cases, we may be able to replace hysterectomy with a simple day-stay procedure — saving time for the hospital and allowing patients to return home and recover faster.”
The introduction of this advanced equipment not only aims to improve patient outcomes but also empowers local healthcare providers. Doctors at Labasa Hospital are currently undergoing training to perform these advanced procedures independently, further advancing the local healthcare system.
The Permanent Secretary for Health acknowledged the critical importance of this donation, stating that it is timely and essential for the enhancement of health services in the Northern Division. He highlighted that the laparoscopic tower and diagnostic instruments will significantly enhance the hospital’s capabilities.
Additionally, the donated equipment includes advanced bipolar diathermy technology, which, notably, is not available in some healthcare facilities even in New Zealand. This initiative signifies a strengthening partnership between Friends of Fiji Health and the Ministry of Health, aimed at improving healthcare delivery and ensuring that high-quality medical treatment becomes increasingly accessible to the northern population of Fiji.
The advancements observed at Labasa Hospital represent a broader movement towards enhancing healthcare services in Fiji, underscoring a commitment to provide world-class treatment and improve patient care through international collaboration. This development serves as a testament to the transformative power of charitable contributions in enhancing healthcare access and outcomes for underserved communities.