Staff shortages challenge Ba, Lautoka hospital operations in Fiji

Hospitals in Fiji operated by Aspen are facing significant operational challenges due to persistent staffing shortages. Both Ba and Lautoka hospitals are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain continuous, round-the-clock services as the broader health sector experiences a "brain drain" of medical professionals.

Chief Executive Gavin Whiteside acknowledged the strain these shortages place on services. He stated that the ongoing exodus of healthcare workers is directly impacting the hospitals' capacity to function at full operational levels. This situation creates pressure on the remaining staff and potentially affects the delivery of essential medical care to the communities served by these facilities.

However, Whiteside expressed optimism that the government's recent budget allocation could provide a much-needed solution. The $120 million allocated to Health Care Fiji in the 2026-27 National Budget is intended to support efforts aimed at mitigating these challenges. The funding is earmarked to ensure that hospital departments remain operational, adequately staffed, and equipped to continue providing key clinical services to the Western Division's communities.

In addition to the budget allocation, Whiteside noted that the renegotiation of the Health Care Fiji Public-Private Partnership agreement is also a key focus. This process aims to strengthen service delivery and address immediate operational needs. The updated agreement is anticipated to facilitate further improvements in healthcare services over the next 12 months, offering a pathway toward stabilizing and enhancing the quality of care at Ba and Lautoka hospitals.

“

That is to maintain 100% operations, all departments open, staffed, equipped, and we are providing those key clinical services to the communities that we serve in Ba and Lautoka.