Patients in Rewa, Nakasi, Makoi, Korovou, and Naitasiri will now benefit from enhanced diagnostic services following the installation of a cutting-edge digital radiology machine at Nausori Health Centre. This significant upgrade aims to provide quicker and more accurate diagnostic results for local communities.
The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, announced that the $200,000 system replaces outdated analogue technology that dates back to 1997. This advancement not only streamlines the diagnostic process but also significantly reduces travel time and delays for families seeking medical care.
Dr. Lalabalavu highlighted that the new system incorporates artificial intelligence software, enabling clinicians to achieve faster and more precise diagnoses, which dramatically cuts down the number of patients who would otherwise need to travel to Suva for scans. He emphasized that “this is more than just new equipment; it is a commitment to timely, comprehensive care for our communities.”
Moreover, the installation at Nausori Health Centre serves as a prototype for a broader initiative, with plans set in motion to introduce similar digital systems at 21 strategically chosen locations across the country, including prominent medical facilities such as CWM Hospital, Taveuni, and Sigatoka.
Senior Biomedical Engineer Ratu Seci Takotavuki remarked that the new digital units will replace the manual film processing methods, leading to improved image clarity and ultimately enhancing patient care and diagnostic efficiency throughout Fiji. This initiative stands as a hopeful testament to the commitment of Fijian healthcare to leverage technology for better health outcomes.