WHO supports access to safer and affordable surgery framework

With climate change increasing surgical site infections and disrupting healthcare systems, the World Health Organization is supporting a regional framework to improve access to safe and affordable surgery in the Western Pacific.

This was highlighted during the Eco Equity Conference at the University of Fiji.

Minister for Health Dr. Ratu Antonio Lalabalavu highlights that while challenges remain the World Health Organization is supporting the implementation framework for safe and affordable surgery in Western Pacific from 2021 to 2030.

Dr Lalabalavu highlights that 70 percent of countries in the region are now introducing legal protections for medical staff who report patient safety incidents, helping build a stronger culture of safety.

He also says 40 percent of countries have adopted the World Health Organization surgical safety checklist, showing positive regional uptake.

The framework promotes better integration of emergency, critical, and surgical care recognizing the urgent need to prepare healthcare systems for climate-related health risks.

Dr Lalabalavu adds that there have been training provided in Cambodia and Kiribati on leadership and to improve sterilization and infection control in maternal health services.