The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is initiating a significant upgrade to its radiology services by replacing outdated analog X-ray machines with cutting-edge digital systems equipped with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. This transformation involves phasing out equipment that has been in use for 15 years, marking a major modernization effort within the healthcare sector.
Sefanaia Takotavuki, a Senior Biomedical Engineer involved in the project, announced that the outdated manual film processing will be eliminated. The new fleet will consist of 18 state-of-the-art floor- and ceiling-mounted digital X-ray units obtained from a reputable Chinese manufacturer following a competitive public tender process.
A key highlight of these new systems is their AI integration, which is expected to significantly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostic procedures. This technological upgrade is poised to positively impact patient outcomes and streamline operations throughout the healthcare system.
The installation of the new machines has already begun in several key locations, including Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva, Nausori, and Taveuni. Following these installations, additional units will be distributed to major sub-divisional and divisional hospitals, as well as selected remote rural facilities, fostering equitable access to healthcare services for all communities.
Takotavuki emphasized that this substantial upgrade will not only shorten patient wait times but will also improve image clarity, representing a noteworthy advancement in patient care and diagnostic precision across Fiji’s public health network. This move reflects a strong commitment to investing in healthcare infrastructure, aiming to enhance service delivery to the public and ensure that all citizens receive high-quality care.