The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has today opened a newly constructed waiting area and the newly refurbished Makoi Health Center.

Minister for Health Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, while commissioning at the event, says that this is part of the government’s intention to revive Fiji Health Services by prioritizing the maintenance of the 220 medical facilities around the country.

Dr. Lalabalavu says that the facility will improve health care delivery to a population of around 32,000 residing along the Nausori corridor, including a village, 22 settlements, 18 schools, and a commercial outlet situated along the area.

“With this upgrade health center at your doorstep, there should be no excuse so take ownership of your health because it is also your wealth. At this juncture, the government of Fiji through the Ministry of Health and Medical services wishes to greatly acknowledge the New Zealand government for its continued support to Fijis Health Sector with a particular focus on infrastructural support currently earmarked for selected health facilities around the country.”

The project cost around $250,000 and was made possible through the government of New Zealand under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

MFAT first secretary Sarah Nisbet says that this collaboration project was born out of the COVID-19 support package for engaging Fiji’s health sector post-pandemic.

“The completed work will bring about several improvements which include improving the comfort of patients and their families who are now in a more comfortable and welcoming environment reducing stress and crowding during challenging times and improving the health and safety of all users of the healthcare facility.”

Nisbet says that the new improvements to the facility will also benefit healthcare professionals by encouraging them to continue doing their work diligently despite the disruptions over the past three months.