THE Fiji Medical Association (FMA) has acknowledged the severe pressures on healthcare workers and highlighted the need for systemic support and fairness.
Healthcare workers operate under extreme resource constraints yet continue delivering high-quality care.
Fiji’s healthcare system suffers from workforce, infrastructure, funding, and resource shortages, yet doctors, nurses, and allied staff innovate and persevere to serve patients effectively.
FMA President Dr Ronald Kumar said the association recognised these efforts as remarkable compared to developed healthcare systems abroad.
“This resilience is a key strength but also highlights urgent needs for systemic improvements.”
The escalating HIV and drug crises require multisectoral coordinated responses beyond healthcare alone, and it remains a major public health issue compounded by a widespread drug problem described as catastrophic.
He said solutions demand collaboration between health, law enforcement, education, social welfare, faith groups, and policymakers.
“Current rehabilitation efforts, such as those by St. Giles, are struggling to keep pace with rising demand.”
FMA stresses the long-term consequences of substance abuse and the need for compassionate, whole-of-society action, and calls for justice and fairness for medical students and young doctors facing emotional and financial pressures.
“Many graduates face uncertainty, fatigue, and financial burdens as they enter the workforce, with concerns about training quality, career pathways, and supervision impacting their morale and professional growth,’’ Kumar said.
“The association advocates for improvements in medical education and internship support to strengthen future workforce stability.”
Regulatory Independence and Professional Ethics
Ensuring strong, independent medical regulation and ethical oversight is a top priority for maintaining clinical standards.
The FMA called f0r independence for the Fiji Medical and Dental Council (FMDC) to uphold clinical and ethical standards free from undue influence.
Kumar added that the Council must affirm clinical independence and protect evidence-based judgment by doctors, and these calls include safeguarding good faith advocacy and whistleblowing in the public interest.
FMA opposes allowing unqualified individuals to practice without FMDC approval, stressing that patient safety and strengthening FMDC’s autonomy are critical to maintaining trust in healthcare regulation.
“Leadership within the profession must continue education and support for workforce wellbeing and development, and Focus extends beyond current doctors to preparing the next generation with a mindset for evolving healthcare demands,” he said.
“The strength of the health system depends on people, not just buildings or equipment. The association aims to foster accountability, collaboration, and practical solutions to improve care quality.
“These efforts complement broader reforms and advocacy to build a sustainable healthcare system in Fiji.”
Public Engagement and Health Policy Influence
FMA is increasing its public and media presence to shape health policies and raise awareness on critical healthcare issues.
The association actively communicates about health challenges and its policy positions through the media and public statements.
FMA has become prominent in raising health awareness and speaking out on systemic challenges. This visibility helps positively influence funding priorities and public perceptions.
He said the approach aligns with the meeting theme “Make it Happen: Results of Rhetoric,” emphasising action over talk.
“Sustained media engagement aims to build accountability and support for fair health policies,”
FMA stresses the real-world impact of health policies on frontline workers and patients.
Kumar said behind every policy is a healthcare worker facing tough decisions and limited resources.
“Examples include a vascular surgeon using expired grafts or doctors triaging patients with scarce ambulances. This framing underscores the urgency of translating rhetoric into practical outcomes and resource investments.”
The association calls for honest reflection and renewed commitment from all stakeholders to improve healthcare delivery.
