New 700-bed national hospital set for 2035

Fiji is moving ahead with plans for a new 700-bed national hospital, projected to open in 2035, built on a completely new site rather than upgrading the century-old Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital.

Dr Luke Nasedra, Medical Superintendent of CWM, said the hospital’s capacity will depend on establishing an additional subdivisional hospital in Suva to provide primary care, allowing the new facility to focus on its tertiary role.

Presenting the master plan at the Fiji Medical Association Annual Conference in Nadi, Dr Nasedra said the planning process is a “collaborative effort” involving CWM staff, Ministry of Health executives, Ministry of Finance officials, and funding support from the Australian Government. 

Consultants Johnston International Development are leading the master plan, scheduled for completion in 2025.

Three specialist groups have shaped the planning: Clinical Services Planning determined the 700-bed capacity, Health Infrastructure Assessment is overseeing interim upgrades at CWM, and Site Options Analysis reviewed seven potential locations between Suva and Nausori before selecting the new site. 

Staff requested evaluations of both “greenfield” and “brownfield” options.

Dr Nasedra said the hospital aims to meet the healthcare needs of Fijians while strengthening its role as a regional referral centre.

“The overarching goal is to meet the needs of the people in Fiji, so that we can serve them better — and align to international standards,” he said.

He added that, depending on political will and funding, the hospital could open within five to ten years, with the possibility that it “may not retain the CWM name.”