The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, has officially presented a new advanced ambulance to the Tavua Medical Team at the Nadarivatu Health Centre. This state-of-the-art vehicle, valued at around $185,000, was donated by the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council and is specifically designed for the challenging hilly terrain of the Tavua Medical Subdivision.
During the handover, Minister Lalabalavu expressed that this event represents a significant advancement in improving healthcare delivery at the community level. The 4-wheel drive Landcruiser ambulance is set to enhance emergency response and patient transport services, benefiting residents of the Nadarivatu Health Centre and nearby rural areas by ensuring quicker and safer access to medical care.
This initiative follows a broader pattern of recent enhancements in Fiji’s emergency healthcare services. For example, other regions, like Rewa, have also received new ambulances through recent donations aimed at improving response times and reducing the logistical burdens faced by health workers. Notably, a similar donation from Japan earlier this year led to the introduction of several ambulances which now support local medical officers in efficiently transporting patients to medical facilities.
The support from the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council underscores ongoing collaborative efforts to strengthen Fiji’s health infrastructure and ensure accessible emergency services, especially for those in remote locations. As the nation continues to focus on bolstering its healthcare capabilities, partnerships and philanthropic contributions play a vital role in addressing critical needs within the community, promising a brighter future for healthcare accessibility across Fiji.