Calls for Action as Medical Errors in Fiji’s Healthcare System Go Unnoticed

There are growing concerns about medical mistakes, such as incorrect medication, wrong doses for children, and misdiagnoses, that occur daily in Fiji's healthcare system but are often not reported or made public.

Dr. Alisi Vudiniabola, President of the Fiji Nursing Association, highlighted that these errors can have serious consequences for patients' health.

She explained that while many families and friends discuss these issues privately, they rarely reach the attention of health officials or the media.

“Many times, mistakes are made, whether it's giving the wrong treatment or mistreating patients, but nobody bothers to report it.

Even when patients are given the wrong injections or treatment, people rarely complain, and this needs to change,” Dr. Vudiniabola said.

She emphasized the importance of addressing medical negligence, pointing out that issues like wrong medications, incorrect doses for children, and misdiagnoses should be talked about more openly.

In response, Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, Acting Chief Medical Advisor at the Ministry of Health, assured the public that once issues are flagged, they are taken seriously.

She explained that sometimes errors happen due to communication problems, but the Ministry has systems in place to address complaints.

“We take every complaint seriously, and our focus is on improving communication and ensuring better healthcare for all Fijians,” Dr. Cikamatana said.