Australia-backed donation boosts health logistics, IV saline solutions restocked

Fiji’s healthcare system has received critical relief following recent concerns over dwindling medical supplies, particularly saline IV solutions.

The Australia Fiji Health Programme has delivered a $143,000 support package aimed at stabilising the nation’s medical supply chain.

The saline IV solutions will immediately address a critical clinical shortage and directly support patient care, a Government release this morning stated.

The assistance, facilitated by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), comes at a crucial time.

Central to the donation are 14,000 units of saline IV solution, a basic but essential resource that had been in short supply across hospitals and clinics, threatening patient care.

Ministry of Health and Medical Services chief medical adviser Dr Luisa Cikamatana confirmed the saline shipment would directly address urgent clinical needs.

Beyond IV saline solutions, the package includes:

• A forklift to improve bulk handling and warehouse operations at Fiji Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services (FPBS).
• Logistics trolleys for safer and more efficient order fulfillment.
• Laptops to drive digital procurement systems and prevent future stock-outs.
  

Dr Cikamatana described these additions as “simple but transformative,” strengthening Fiji’s health supply chain and reducing the risk of recurring shortages.

DFAT senior programme manager for Health, Dr Frances Bingwor, said that the initiative is about more than emergency relief.

 “This donation ensures reliable medical supplies reach those in need, creating a lasting impact on Fiji’s healthcare system,” she said.

This latest support reinforces the Vuvale Partnership between Fiji and Australia, ensuring that essential medicines and equipment continue to flow to those who need them most.