Savusavu Hospital X-ray Machine Down for More than 2 Months

Savusavu Chamber of Commerce and Industries president Avikash Pillay, is hoping that the Ministry of Health would do something about the defunct X-ray machine at the Savusavu sub-divisional hospital.

“We have been waiting for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to take action since the machine has been out of order for over two months now,” Mr Pillay said.

“The business community is ready to assist, but instructions need to come from the ministry’s headquarters.”

The machine was semi-functional from July and was completely out of order since October last year.

“I was told by the staff to fill in a form and get my X-ray done at Zens Medical Centre in Savusavu before 5pm; otherwise, I would have to wait,” a patient Ilisapeci Bola said.

“I come from Natewa, I know this hospital has all the equipment, but this is not the case. This is the only big hospital serving the people of Cakaudrove, including those from the Prime Minister’s village.”

Local businessman Aren Nunnink after having a look at the machine discovered that the state-of-the-art X-ray machine needs a software upgrade.

“If there is an urgency this medical equipment must be functional to serve its purpose,” Mr Nunnink said.

“Imagine if there is a car accident after 5pm and doctors need an urgent X-ray, where will they go and what will happen to the patients?”

Mr Nunnink is offering to pay for repairs, with a local engineer capable in fixing the machine in 30 minutes.

“I have tried calling those in authority but have been told that they are on annual leave,” he said.

“I am ready to help along with other business people here, but it’s the very people who are supposed to channel communications from Savusavu that are not doing anything about it.”

An email was sent to the Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, Dr Jemesa Tudravu on December 30 requesting an update on the situation.

No reply has been received yet.

In the 2024-2025 National Budget, Finance Minister Biman Prasad allocated $12 million for capital construction and maintenance works at Labasa Hospital, as well as for the refurbishment and upgrade of urban and sub-divisional hospitals, health centers, and nursing stations.

This also included funds for the refurbishment of the Savusavu health facility and the construction of a new rehabilitation center in Tamavua.

An additional $3.8 million was earmarked for minor upgrades and maintenance at health facilities nationwide.

However, the issue with the X-ray machine in Savusavu remains unresolved.

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