Months of technical issues and supply delays with a mammogram machine have left women in Fiji anxiously awaiting essential cancer screening services at Suva’s Colonial War Memorial Hospital. Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa acknowledged that the hospital encountered disruptions due to challenges in the supply chain and difficulties in sourcing specialized parts for the machine.
“The disruptions earlier this year stemmed from technical faults and procurement of essential components, but these issues have now been addressed,” Mr. Ravunawa stated, adding that the machine’s malfunction created a backlog of tests waiting to be processed. He assured that testing has resumed and that pap smear testing capacity is fully restored.
In a proactive response to the situation, the Health Ministry is working closely with suppliers and engineers to secure necessary parts, address recalibration, and improve maintenance systems to avert future breakdowns. Moreover, a new mammogram machine has been procured and is expected to arrive by February, showing a positive step towards enhancing women’s health services.
However, women’s health advocate Judy Compain expressed concern over the breakdown’s duration, suggesting the machine has been inoperative since March of last year. She highlighted a systemic neglect in addressing women’s health issues, which contributes to a culture where early cancer detection is neglected, often leaving women to seek alternatives if they can pay for private services.
This situation mirrors similar healthcare challenges seen across Fiji, where operational deficiencies in medical equipment, like those noted at the Savusavu and Labasa hospitals, have left patients without critical services for extended periods. The recent allocation of $12 million for health facility upgrades is a step in the right direction, indicating a willingness from the government to invest in healthcare infrastructure.
Despite frustrations expressed by community members regarding the delays in vital services, there remains hope as healthcare leaders advocate for better resource allocation and operational resolutions. The combined efforts of health officials, local businesses, and community members reflect a collective commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes across Fiji. With continued focus on addressing these operational issues, there is optimism that essential medical services will soon be restored and made more accessible to those in need.