Concerns have emerged regarding the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) medical scheme in Fiji, as patients report being denied services due to delays in government payments. Many individuals have expressed their frustrations after visiting clinics in Suva, where they were told that outstanding dues from the government were hindering their access to necessary care.
One such patient, Ajinesh Prasad, shared his experience of taking his elderly mother to a private clinic, only to be informed they could not provide assistance until the government made its prior payments. Similar incidents have been reported by other patients, underscoring a pressing need for the government to address these outstanding payments to enable private clinics to operate effectively.
The Fiji College of General Practitioners (FCGP) has supported these claims, stating that numerous members have faced challenges because of the delayed reimbursements. The last payment received for services rendered by practitioners was in July, creating anxiety among the private sector, which relies on timely payments to maintain operations. Nonetheless, the FCGP has assured that many clinics continue to serve patients without turning them away, highlighting the dedication of healthcare providers amidst the difficulties.
In response to these issues, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated he was unaware of the situation but committed to reaching out to the Minister for Health and Medical Services for more information. Rabuka emphasized that practitioners who have fulfilled their obligations will receive their payments.
Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health, acknowledged the challenges of the PPP initiative, which was established during the Covid-19 pandemic. He pointed out that foundational issues like a lack of comprehension of the PPP model and insufficient institutional capacity have hindered the program’s success. However, he noted that partnerships with firms like Healthcare Fiji have yielded significant improvements in healthcare services, particularly at Lautoka Hospital, which now features a modern emergency department and enhanced medical capabilities.
While the reports of current challenges are concerning, there is a sense of optimism as the government works diligently to address these payment delays. By maintaining a commitment to transparency and enhancing the governance of healthcare services, Fiji can build a more resilient and effective healthcare system for its citizens.