Overview

Fiji achieved a high level of population health coverage through innovative primary health care initiatives in the 1970s. Since then urbanization, changing lifestyles and other factors demand that the health system adapt, and this has proven difficult to achieve in a period of political instability and slow economic growth.

The financial challenges faced by Fiji’s health system are compounded by its high dependence on taxation revenue. Other challenges include determining the appropriate degree of decentralization of decision-making and the migration of health professionals. This calls for innovation in terms of career structures and greater investment in training.

The increase in non-communicable diseases highlights the need for Fiji to adopt policies and create environments that encourage healthier lifestyles, while also responding to the needs for clinical care.