The shortage of accommodation for healthcare staff at health centers in the Northern region has become a significant concern, as identified by Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa. He revealed that this challenge is not new but one that has been inherited, with the current government now making it a priority in its capital development plans.
Mr. Ravunawa expressed his appreciation for the support from development partners who have contributed to infrastructure projects in the Northern Division and throughout Fiji. He pointed out that several facilities are in dire need of major renovations, while others urgently require additional housing due to an increase in the number of staff members.
In cases where housing is insufficient, healthcare workers often need to share accommodations. For instance, it is not unusual for two nurses to share a two-bedroom apartment, coordinating arrangements with the matron or the director of nursing to ensure their comfort.
Ongoing discussions are focusing on improving living conditions for healthcare staff, which is critical for enabling them to provide effective patient care. This commitment to enhancing staff accommodation represents a meaningful advancement towards better healthcare services and underscores the necessity of addressing infrastructure challenges within the health sector. As efforts progress, there is hope that such improvements will lead to a more robust healthcare system that benefits both staff and patients alike.