Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu has revealed that 15 hospitals across the country lack both full and active board of visitors.

Speaking at a British High Commission fundraising event for the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Dr Atonio stated the ministry is advertising for board of visitors applications as part of their plan to improve health facility infrastructure.

“This is for 13 sub-divisional and two specialist hospitals,” he said.

“I encourage you to look at the application form on the ministry’s website and consider applying before the deadline on March 24.

“As business leaders and development partners, you are crucial to the success of our vision of improved healthcare in Fiji.”

Dr Atonio also mentioned that while some of the 220 health facilities were in good shape, the majority were not.

He expressed sympathy for the staff who work in challenging conditions to provide care for the people, adding that many facilities have damaged infrastructure, insufficient maintenance programs, and poor water, hygiene, and sanitation facilities.