The Assistant Minister for Health in Fiji, Penioni Ravunawa, has issued a crucial appeal to residents of the nation’s remote maritime islands, urging them to prioritize the safety and security of health workers and government officials who serve their communities. This urgent message comes in light of a recent incident that led to the temporary closure of the Ono-i-Lau Health Centre, prompted by the alleged harassment of a nurse on duty.
Ravunawa confirmed that the case is now under judicial consideration, involving a 23-year-old male accused of the harassment. In response to the incident and the resulting safety concerns, the Ministry of Health has made the difficult decision to withdraw the affected health worker from the area, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Despite the health centre’s closure, Ravunawa reassured the public that essential health services continue to be available. Local village health workers are stepping up to provide ongoing support, and the Ministry is actively communicating with the Eastern Divisional Office to assess community needs, particularly those of vulnerable elderly individuals residing on the islands of Dakuni and Doi.
Emphasizing the importance of protecting frontline workers, Ravunawa stated, “This is a stern warning to members of the public, especially in very remote maritime islands, to look after their health workers and government civil servants posted to their communities.” He highlighted the significant challenges and costs linked to transporting patients from these outer islands to mainland medical facilities, reinforcing the need for a safe environment for healthcare providers.
The Ono-i-Lau Health Centre will remain closed until further notice, pending the court’s findings. The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and continues to urge communities to come together to ensure the safety of those dedicated to providing crucial health services. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that community support plays in safeguarding health workers, ultimately creating a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals involved in delivering essential health services.