Doctors welcome health budget but warn of funding gaps

The Fiji Medical Association has welcomed the increased allocation for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in the 2026-2027 National Budget but says concerns remain over funding cuts to key services and shortages in senior medical positions.

Acting president Dr Ronal Kumar said the increased allocation would allow the ministry to recruit more doctors and nurses.

However, he said the budget did not adequately address shortages in senior positions across public health, preventive care and specialist hospital services.

"We appreciate the increase, but some of the details we noticed that segment one of the budget shows a decrease.

"Even though there is a higher overall budget, areas such as family health, research and mental health have had funding cuts, particularly in wages and salaries."

Dr Kumar said the reductions remained a concern despite additional funding for new staff.

He said increased funding for medicines, biomedical services and medical equipment would help ease pressure on healthcare workers.

"It is one thing to have adequate number of people on the ground, but it is more important that healthcare workers are supported with adequate resources."

Dr Kumar said the Government should also strengthen investment in primary healthcare and preventive medicine in line with the National Health Strategic Plan 2026-2030.

"It is also important to ensure quality training in our medical schools and to strengthen specialist training for the country."