Sixty eight new doctors were today reminded to be service-oriented and work as a team to provide the best services to all Fijians.
They were inducted into the health sector in Suva this morning by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Rosy Akbar.
Akbar said doctors were the engines of the health system, and urged them to uphold the values of the Health Ministry and the Fijian Government. They were reminded that they would be held accountable for their actions, and urged them to seek assistance from their seniors.
“You must have respect, dignity, integrity, be customer focused, responsive and practice equity. Also, be empathetic in your service towards your patients, and that includes families of the patients and the public as well.
“We are aware that you will face challenges in terms of the health facilities and the much needed resources. Our health sector is facing these challenges for many years and work is in progress to improve on the facilities.
“We need to strengthen our pharmaceutical supplies. Drugs and medicine might not be available at certain health facilities but I urge you to work with your supervisors to ensure those needs are met.” – Health Minister Rosy Akbar.
The doctors were also reminded to be calm and patient even when dealing with unreasonable or argumentative patients.
Highlighting the need for doctors to look after their health as well, Minister Akbar added they did not want a sick health workforce.