There are currently 69 vacant senior medical positions across Fiji’s public hospitals and health facilities, with 56 of these positions being covered through acting appointments, with discussions underway to bring medical professionals from the Philippines.
Minister for Health Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu revealed this in Parliament while responding to Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma's question on the current staffing levels for senior medical officer across public hospitals.
Dr Lalabalavu says there are 290 established senior medical positions across the public health system, of which 221 are filled and 69 are vacant.
He says these positions include senior medical officers, principal medical officers, chief medical officers, consultants, divisional medical officers and medical superintendents.
When questioned on whether the Ministry is considering recruiting medical staff from the Philippines following the Assistant Minister for Health’s recent visit to Manila, Dr Lalabalavu says discussions are still in progress.
He says the Ministry plans to work with the Ministry of Employment on the issue, particularly in relation to countries experiencing staffing shortages.
Dr Lalabalavu says once the necessary areas have been identified and requirements addressed, they can further consider the issue discussed during the Assistant Minister’s visit to Manila.
He also highlighted staffing challenges in areas including pharmacy and medical imaging technology saying the Ministry is trying to not only recruit staff in these areas but also retain them through various incentives and other packages.
Responding to a question on shortages in critical areas and whether more scholarships could be provided, Dr Lalabalavu acknowledged the staffing challenges and stressed that graduates from local tertiary institutions also have qualifications recognised in New Zealand and Australia, making them marketable for employment opportunities overseas.
He says while they wish those pursuing overseas opportunities well, the Ministry ensures graduates are properly trained before being deployed into the public health system so they are competent to work individually or as part of a team in sub-divisional areas.
