The Ministry of Health in Fiji is being urged to incorporate “motivational interviewing” into all levels of medical education and practice as a means to enhance patient care. Dr. Alipate Vakamocea, a Health Standard Adviser for the Australia Fiji Health Program, emphasizes the importance of this approach in transforming the healthcare system in the country.
Motivational interviewing is a patient-centered method that encourages patients to establish their own health objectives and make sustainable lifestyle changes, moving away from a prescriptive model of care. Dr. Vakamocea points out that the initiative should begin with its inclusion in the undergraduate medical curriculum at the Fiji National University. If integrating this approach into current programs proves challenging, the Ministry could collaborate with the Fiji Medical Council, which holds the legal power to mandate training standards for medical students.
The next step in implementation should take place during medical internships, allowing students to transition to practicing physicians while gaining valuable exposure to motivational interviewing techniques. The Ministry, in concert with various donor agencies, is in the process of developing a new internship training program that will provide structured opportunities to teach this important methodology.
For those currently practicing medicine, Dr. Vakamocea recommends that motivational interviewing be integrated into continued professional development offerings from both the Fiji Medical Association and the Fiji College of General Practitioners. These organizations can facilitate ongoing training through conferences and professional courses, equipping doctors with the skills to work collaboratively with patients and promote lasting lifestyle changes.
By embedding motivational interviewing at all educational and professional levels, Fiji’s healthcare professionals will be better prepared to guide patients effectively, empowering them to take charge of their health and reduce the incidence of non-communicable diseases. This progressive step could significantly improve the overall health outcomes in Fiji, aligning with global best practices in patient care.