The launch of 22 portable digital x-ray machines by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama yesterday will cut waiting time.

With an investment of $4.3 million, the machines give out results in five seconds compared to the traditional 20-minute x-ray process used previously.

While officiating at the launch at the Makoi Health Centre, Mr Bainimarama said after the painful impact of Tropical Cyclone Yasa, a rapid on-site digital x-ray could mean the difference between life and death.

“When you’re awaiting treatment that could save your life or spare you a great deal of pain, every second matters,” he said.

“That is what this advancement means for our people¬: Suffering that will be spared and lives that will be saved.

“The digital x-ray process is not only faster, but it also delivers better care. The images it captures can be quickly and securely shared across our national healthcare network – which is critical for the diagnosis of certain conditions. And it creates an accurate digital record that informs better treatment, anywhere in Fiji that treatment is sought,” Mr Bainimarama said.

Up until yesterday, only four hospitals in Fiji were using digital x-ray machines and rather than limit its availability to only major hospitals, the machines will be installed in all divisions nationwide.

Minister for Health Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete said the digital x-ray machines are available for patients free of cost.

About 40 Health staff are trained to operate the digital x-ray machines and so far, 11 machines have been installed in health facilities across Fiji.

Edited by Selita Rabuku

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