Months of technical difficulties and supply chain delays with a mammogram machine have left many women in Fiji anxiously awaiting crucial cancer screening services at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa acknowledged that the hospital faced disruptions from technical faults and challenges in procuring specialized parts for the machine.
“The earlier disruptions were due to mechanical failures and the procurement of essential components, but these issues have now been resolved,” Mr. Ravunawa confirmed, explaining that the machine’s malfunction created a backlog of tests that needed to be processed. He assured the public that testing has resumed, and the capacity for pap smear testing has been fully restored.
In a proactive response to these challenges, the Health Ministry is collaborating closely with suppliers and engineers to acquire the necessary parts, ensure recalibration, and enhance maintenance systems to prevent future breakdowns. Additionally, a new mammogram machine has been ordered and is expected to arrive by February, representing a promising advancement in women’s health services.
However, women’s health advocate Judy Compain raised concerns over the machine’s prolonged downtime, noting that it has been non-operational since March of last year. She underscored a pattern of neglect regarding women’s health issues within the healthcare system, which cultivates an environment where early cancer detection is often overlooked, pushing women to seek private services if they can afford them.
This situation reflects broader healthcare challenges faced across Fiji, where operational inefficiencies in medical equipment have resulted in critical service disruptions at facilities like Savusavu and Labasa hospitals. The government’s recent allocation of $12 million for health facility upgrades is a significant step towards improving this infrastructure, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing healthcare services.
Despite the frustrations expressed by community members concerning the delays, there is a sense of optimism as healthcare leaders push for improved resource allocation and operational solutions. The joint efforts of health officials, local businesses, and community members indicate a strong determination to enhance healthcare access and outcomes throughout Fiji. With focused attention on resolving these operational challenges, there is hope that essential medical services will soon be reliably available to all those who need them.