Ra Maternity Hospital recently celebrated its 55th anniversary, marking over half a century of dedicated service in maternal healthcare within the Ra province. During the celebration, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Colleen Wilson reminisced about the hospital’s original mission of supporting women throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood care.
Amidst the festivities, Wilson posed an essential question to stakeholders, including church leaders and health officials: Should Ra Maternity Hospital remain a small facility, or is there a vision for expansion to address the increasing healthcare demands in the region? The challenge of providing accessible care became apparent, particularly given the long distances residents must travel to receive healthcare services.
After 55 years of operation, Wilson underscored the importance of collaboration among the Roman Catholic Church in Fiji, local communities in Ra, and the Ministry of Health to determine the future trajectory of the hospital. She highlighted Fiji’s ongoing health challenges, advocating for a larger, adequately staffed facility that can better cater to the needs of women and children across Saivou, Nalawa, Nakorotubu, and beyond.
Reflecting on the hospital’s legacy, Wilson expressed gratitude for being a part of this institution, emphasizing how many in the community view themselves as products of the care received at Ra Maternity Hospital throughout the decades.
This milestone offers an opportunity for renewed focus on the importance of maternal health services in Fiji and ignites hope for future improvements in healthcare infrastructure. Advocating for an expanded facility could lead to better health outcomes for generations to come, aligning with other community efforts aimed at enhancing healthcare services, such as the recent improvements at Nadi Hospital and new initiatives under government support. These collective actions exhibit a commitment to nurturing and uplifting the health and well-being of the community.