Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama launches a portable Digital X-ray machine at the Makoi Health Centre in Nasinu today. [Source: I. Waqainabete/twitter]

Fiji’s health care system continues to evolve with 22 new portable, digital x-ray machines launched by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama today.

During the launch at Makoi Health Centre in Nasinu, Bainimarama says the $4.3m investment will reach every division in the country including those in the maritime islands.

Bainimarama says having such technology in our hospitals will allow medical personnel to carry out their work efficiently.

“With this equipment at the ready in the aftermath of future storms, a rapid on-site digital x-ray of an injured Fijian could mean the difference between life and death. That is what this advancement means for our people­: Suffering that will be spared, and lives that will be saved.”

The images captured by the new x-ray machine can be quickly and securely shared across the national healthcare network which is critical for the diagnosis of certain conditions.

The Prime Minister says it also creates an accurate digital record that informs better treatment.

Today the Hon PM launched our Digital Radiology Fiji wide in 22 locations. No more wet films, No “dark rooms” and No hazardous chemicals. No more long wait for films to be processed. At the touch of a button; a image is projected within 5 seconds. #TogetherWeCan pic.twitter.com/EAPybPGgPN

— Dr I Waqainabete (@Nadokoulu) January 26, 2021