The Hon. Tiofilusi Tiueti, Minister of Finance outlined initiatives totaling $78.9 million funding for the health sector during the Budget speech for the next fiscal year delivered in Parliament aimed at improving the quality and affordability of healthcare.
A key focus of the investment is on improving the safety and resilience of health infrastructure. This includes projects like the Vava’u Hospital and the establishment of a Dialysis Unit at the Vaini Health Centre.
The funding will also target tackling the non-communicable disease crisis in Tonga.
The budget allocates funds to increase enrollment at the Queen Salote Nursing School, bolstering the healthcare workforce. And the E-Health project will train health professionals on the e-Government system.
The continuation of the school breakfast program highlights a focus on preventative measures and long-term health.
These initiatives fall under the umbrella of ‘Government Priority Agenda 5: Improving access to quality and affordable healthcare’.
