The Ultimate Goal:
This programme draws on successful work carried out in Africa by Dr Stephen Howie (University of Auckland) and colleagues, and current pilot work in Fiji at Nausori Health Centre, Nabouwalu Hospital, and Taveuni Hospital and the ultimate goal in view, is national coverage to ensure that no communities are left unprotected. Ultimately, we want every child in Fiji to have access to a reliable oxygen supply.
The medium term aim is to realise the next stag e of this vision over the next 3 years; going from 3 health facilities with reliable supplies, to a national network of 12. This is a critical period that will form the bridge between the pilot phase and the successful implementation of a full-scale national programme.
The Oxygen Solution:
Oxygen concentrators, machines which filter nitrogen from air to supply high quality oxygen, are much more cost effective than cylinder oxygen, and do not require transport back and forth. If the right equipment is used, they can work well in tropical countries. However, oxygen concentrators require reliable power, which is a barrier to their use in Fiji. We are using carefully specified 24/7 oxygen systems incorporating oxygen concentrators, with solar power where needed, and batteries for power storage.
The long-term goal is that, no child in Fiji dies from lack of oxygen.
Frances Benge
CEO - Cure Kids