Progress and Perseverance in Paediatric Medicine

Meet the Woman behind Pacific Babies, the new private paediatric clinic focused on improving children’s health and well-being, which is now open in Namaka, Nadi.

Owned and operated by registered paediatrician Dr. Asena Tuiketei, Pacific Babies is built on over 15 years of experience in the healthcare sector.

She is also a doctor that every parent needs to know.

Driven by her vision to prioritise the individual needs of the child and the family, Dr Tuiketei saw this as an opportunity to spend more time with patients, personalise treatment plans, and focus on preventative care.

The 41-year-old paediatrician expressed her passion for creating a welcoming and creative space where families are heard, understood, and empowered in their child’s health journey.

It’s also a clinic where children get VIP treatment.

Goals 

“My goal is to create a clinic that is not just a place for treating illness but a centre for promoting child health and well-being. This includes offering educational resources, workshops, and creating a network of support for parents,” Dr Tuiketei said.

She acknowledges that operating a business is demanding, but she believes it offers greater control over her schedule, allowing her to integrate her professional and personal life.

“This clinic gives me the flexibility to be present for my own family while pursuing my passion for paediatric care,” she highlighted.

She is passionate about addressing the foundational needs of children to promote their physical, mental, and social development.

“My vision for our paediatric clinic in Nadi centres on creating a sustainable, impactful healthcare hub for families.”

“I aim to bridge the gap in accessible, high-quality paediatric care by establishing a clinic that prioritises preventative medicine, early intervention, and holistic child development,” she said.

Clear Communications 

Dr Tuiketei aims to work closely with families by encouraging clear communication.

This is achieved through active listening, providing clear explanations, engaging in open dialogues, and demonstrating empathy and compassion.

“Build rapport with the children and their families, being respectful of their family dynamics, culture, and religion while maintaining confidentiality.”

“We also foster long-term relationships and continuous improvement through customer feedback, staying up to date with the latest medical knowledge and best practices in paediatrics, and reflecting on our standards of service,” she stated.

In light of this year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ Pacific Babies is growing its efforts to provide essential maternal and child healthcare services, ensuring every mother receives the quality care she deserves.

To reaffirm this commitment to equitable healthcare access for all families, Antenatal clinics and prenatal breastfeeding classes have been added to their services.

“We’ve heard your concerns, mothers. We understand the need for accessible, culturally sensitive information.”

“These prenatal breastfeeding classes, led by our experienced pediatric team, will provide practical skills and emotional support and foster a nurturing community of shared experiences,’ she said.

Services

Pacific Babies is also dedicated every Friday morning (9:00 AM-1:00 PM) to maternal services, including antenatal and postnatal clinics, prenatal breastfeeding classes, Pap smear and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) screening tests, and general health check-ups.

She believes that by investing in quality healthcare for mothers and children, mothers are empowered, families are strengthened, and this, in turn, will contribute to a healthier Fiji.

“We are investing in their future and the future of our Pacific babies. Supporting women accelerate action towards a healthier, stronger community,” she added.

With experience working with children in Tuvalu and other Pacific island countries, she is also an executive committee member of the Pacific Paediatric Association, a member of the Fiji Medical Association, and a member of the Fiji Council of General Practitioners.

Looking ahead, Dr Tuiketei envisions Pacific Babies becoming a leading paediatric hub in Nadi over the next 5-10 years.

Impact 

Pacific Babies is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on families in Fiji, particularly in the Western Division, by supporting a healthier future for Fiji’s next generation.

The mother of three’s passion for paediatrics is deeply rooted in both her personal experiences and her family’s strong medical background; her mother and brother are doctors, while her sister is an international lawyer.

Her journey into child healthcare began with volunteer work at the children’s ministry in her church, where she also developed a deep desire to become a doctor.

She realised that paediatrics allowed her to combine both passions, working with children and practising medicine.

“These experiences have shaped my perspective and reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate and supportive care to all families.”

“I feel privileged to contribute to the health of this community,” she added.

Dr Tuiketei holds Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees from the Fiji School of Medicine (FSM), which is now part of the Fiji National University.

Not only is she breaking barriers, but she is saving lives one child at a time. Join Pacific Babies in its mission to build a healthier Fiji.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj