Doctors warn of admin interference, affects patient care

Doctors in Fiji say interference from administrators is affecting their ability to make proper medical decisions.

The Fiji Medical Association (FMA) told the Constitution Review Commission that some clinicians have been asked to change their decisions, raising concerns about patient care.

FMA executive member Alipate Vakamocea said medical judgment should never be influenced by non-medical officials.

“That should never happen,” he said.

The association is calling for stronger legal protections to ensure doctors can make decisions based only on medical evidence and professional standards.

The FMA also raised concerns about the powers of the Minister for Health, saying the role can override decisions made by the Fiji Medical Council. It said this could affect who is allowed to practise medicine in the country.

Mr Vakamocea said independent bodies must be able to operate without outside pressure.

The association also pointed to what it called a “culture of silence” in the health system, where doctors often need approval before speaking publicly about issues.

The FMA said this could put patient safety at risk. In a recent example, staff were told not to discuss problems at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital.

“These issues affect patient care and should not be hidden,” Mr Vakamocea said.

The association is now pushing for doctors to have the right to speak openly about public health concerns without fear of punishment.

It also highlighted tough working conditions, including long hours and a lack of basic services.

The FMA is urging the Government to ensure safer and better working environments, saying this is key to improving patient care.