Poor working conditions, inadequate medical equipment, burnout and a lack of merit-based promotions have been highlighted as some of the major factors pushing Fiji's doctors and nurses to seek employment overseas.
These concerns were raised by Fiji National University Associate Professor in Psychiatry and Associate Dean of Learning and Teaching at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Dr Odille Chang, in the health sectoral impact assessment report synopsis submitted to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Dr Chang stressed that while higher salaries and better working conditions overseas attract medical professionals, Fiji must address the problems driving them away.
She says the working environment in Fiji's health facilities remains a major concern, as doctors and nurses are often expected to perform their duties without adequate equipment, medicines and facilities.
Dr Chang says even after doctors received significant salary increases, in some cases up to 100 percent, many continued to experience stress because they could not properly carry out their duties.
She says improving salaries alone will not solve the problem, as healthcare professionals need a properly functioning system to deliver quality services.
Concerns were also raised about the declining quality of medical training, particularly for future surgeons and other specialists who require practical experience.
Referring to concerns raised by Professor McKay during the Fiji Medical Association's Strategic Conference last month, Dr Chang says only two operating theatres were operational.
She says this significantly affects the training of future surgeons, obstetricians, gynaecologists and ophthalmologists.
Dr Chang says students who perform only one or two procedures during an entire year of training will struggle to develop the necessary skills.
She says medical professionals are being trained to work around shortages of equipment and facilities rather than being provided with the resources needed to develop their skills.
Dr Chang adds that burnout and mental health challenges among healthcare workers were also identified as serious concerns.
She says some medical professionals are struggling with personal issues and exhaustion but are reluctant to seek assistance because of the stigma associated with mental health and burnout.
She also raised concerns about the lack of merit-based promotions, alleging that some healthcare workers are being overlooked while others receive promotions because of personal connections, race or gender.
Dr Chang says such practices discourage hardworking professionals and contribute to their decisions to leave the country.
She stressed that Fiji must strengthen its healthcare system, improve working conditions, support medical professionals and ensure promotions are based on merit if it wants to retain its skilled workforce.
