The BA Vision Eye Clinic, represented by Jacqueline Luck, has expressed frustration at the Health Ministry’s decision to deny registration to expatriate eye surgeons, which prevents them from performing necessary surgeries in Fiji. During her speech at a Town Hall Forum organized by the Fijian Media Association in Ba, Ms. Luck highlighted the urgent need for these skilled professionals, especially as over 100 patients are currently waiting for cataract surgeries and retina treatments that are not available locally.
Ms. Luck pointed out that despite having previously hosted international surgeons who successfully provided vital services to the community, the Ministry has now placed a hold on these medical professionals’ registrations after several successful past applications. She underscored the importance of accepting these expatriates, as they are critical for addressing the gaps in local capabilities within the healthcare system.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also voiced his concerns over the Ministry’s stance, indicating that it is crucial for qualified international surgeons to be integrated into the healthcare system to support local medical personnel. He acknowledged the governmental responsibility to ensure patient safety while allowing competent foreign professionals to contribute.
This situation reflects ongoing issues within Fiji’s healthcare sector, where a significant shortage of specialists has been evident. The government is aware of these challenges and is actively pursuing strategies aimed at enhancing the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals. Furthermore, previous discussions have emphasized the need for more effective healthcare governance to ensure the community’s medical needs are met.
The collaborative efforts between local and international medical professionals, like those at the BA Vision Eye Clinic, shine a light on the pressing needs of the Fijian healthcare system. While challenges remain, the active dialogue around improving healthcare access and quality fosters hope for future advancements. Enhanced cooperation may lead to impactful changes that not only benefit patients in need today but also strengthen the foundation of healthcare for future generations in Fiji.