Calls to Improve Levuka Hospital Infrastructure Amidst Patient Sharing Concerns

Residents of Levuka, Fiji, have voiced serious concerns over the declining state of Levuka Hospital, highlighting a critical shortage of space that forces patients to share a single ward. The men's ward has been repurposed as office space following a fire last year, exacerbating the issue.

Kevin Hennings, an Ovalau resident, described the hospital's condition as "very poor" during a Fiji Media Association Town Hall Forum. He noted that the inpatient wards and bathrooms are in disrepair. Originally designed to accommodate men, women, and children separately, the hospital now houses all patients in one room due to the conversion of the men's ward into an administrative office.

Dr. Malakai Ranuve, Levuka Sub-Divisional Medical Officer, confirmed that the men's ward was indeed converted into administration and health offices after the original administration building was destroyed by fire in November of the previous year. He stated this temporary measure was necessary to maintain hospital services.

Dr. Ranuve announced that significant repair work has commenced on the administration building, funded by development partners. Engineers have inspected the site, and the Ministry is collaborating with Heritage authorities due to Levuka's historic status. The repairs are anticipated to take approximately six months. Once completed, administrative staff will vacate the current ward space, allowing the hospital to reinstate additional inpatient beds and improve ward arrangements. Furthermore, a full renovation of Levuka Hospital is planned for the current financial year, shifting the Ministry's focus from upgrading other facilities in Lomaiviti to the main hospital in Levuka.

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very poor