The Ministry of Health is working to ensure that patients admitted to St. Giles Hospital are there to receive the specialised mental health services the facility is intended to provide.
Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu made the comments when questioned by fijivillage News on whether the Ministry is looking at supporting St. Giles Hospital staff, who have raised concerns about limited space and manpower.
Dr Lalabalavu says the growing number of drug-related cases has resulted in more people seeking treatment at St. Giles Hospital.
Dr Lalabalavu says the Ministry is looking forward to the opening of the new centre and acknowledges the support of all stakeholders in achieving this milestone.
He says the fight against drugs is not the Government's responsibility alone but requires a whole-of-society approach.
When asked about the challenges the Ministry faces in addressing the drug crisis, Dr Lalabalavu says its primary focus is treating addiction, as the Ministry is often dealing with the consequences of drug abuse.
He says while the Ministry continues to care for acute drug-related cases, it welcomes facilities such as recovery centres that focus on prevention, awareness and behaviour change.
Dr Lalabalavu adds that these are areas where the Ministry hopes stakeholders and development partners will continue to provide support
