Labasa Divisional Hospital continues to wait for government funding approval to install a crucial transformer, which is necessary to power its CT scan machine that has been out of service for the past two years. Medical Superintendent Dr. Jaoji Vulibeci confirmed the project’s completion on the hospital’s end, but highlighted that the installation cannot proceed until the required government funds are released.
Dr. Vulibeci emphasized that the delay in funding approval is entirely dependent on the Ministry of Health and its processes. “Physically, the CT scan is there,” he stated. “The Labasa Hospital has done its part; we’re just waiting for the transformer to be installed. The government process is quite long, and we don’t have control over that.”
In the interim, patients requiring CT scans are being referred to facilities in Suva, while those willing to pay for services can opt for Zens Medical in Labasa. It’s important to note that the CT scan machine has specific power wattage and safety requirements, which must be met for it to operate effectively.
This situation reflects ongoing issues surrounding healthcare accessibility in Labasa. Previously, it was reported that the newly installed CT scan unit faced functional delays due to electrical supply issues and required upgrades, which left many patients without essential imaging services, thereby increasing financial burdens on local residents. Now, with government funding still pending, the resolve to maintain operational medical services remains critical.
Despite the challenges, the commitment shown by local healthcare officials highlights an opportunity for improvement in healthcare infrastructure. As financial decisions are made, there is hope that the necessary upgrades will soon enable Labasa Hospital to provide essential diagnostic services to its community, thereby alleviating the reliance on external facilities. Collaborating with local stakeholders could further strengthen the efforts to enhance healthcare service delivery in the region.