Rajendra Sheromani of Oceania Hospital Suva, Fiji, talks about strategic initiatives and technological advancements with a focus on enhancing patient care and fostering international partnerships.
How has Oceania Hospital evolved since its establishment?
Oceania Hospitals was founded in 2001, and over the years, we have grown into Fiji’s largest private healthcare provider, as well as one of the largest in the South Pacific. We started as a general medical and surgical hospital, offering a broad range of services, but as the community’s healthcare needs evolved, so did we. In 2024, we reached a significant milestone by achieving ISO certification, making us the first hospital in Fiji and potentially in the region to do so. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards in quality management systems. It ensures that every aspect of our hospital, from patient care to daily operations, adheres to rigorous international benchmarks. Today, we provide a wide spectrum of healthcare, from routine day surgeries to complex procedures, all while ensuring the highest standard of clinical and nursing care for our patients.
How would you define Oceania Hospital’s approach to patient care and the patient experience?
At Oceania Hospital, our approach to patient care is all about delivering high-quality, compassionate, and patient-centred services. As a private healthcare provider, we prioritize the well-being of our patients, ensuring they receive personalized care in a supportive environment. We focus on tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs, so every patient feels heard, respected, and cared for throughout their healthcare journey. From the moment patients walk through our doors, they are met by a team of dedicated professionals who not only have the expertise but also genuinely care about their physical and emotional needs. We place great importance on clear communication, making sure our patients are fully informed about their treatment options and care plans. Ultimately, we aim to provide exceptional healthcare outcomes while creating a positive and stress-free experience for everyone we care for.
How does the hospital stay ahead of technological advancements and integrate them into patient care?
We are committed to staying at the forefront of healthcare by continually investing in cutting-edge technology. We regularly update our diagnostic tools and imaging devices to ensure we are using the latest innovations. By partnering with top medical tech companies and attending global healthcare conferences, we are able to introduce new technologies that enhance diagnosis accuracy, improve surgical precision, and speed up recovery times for our patients. We also prioritize patient-centric digital solutions, such as electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, and patient management apps. These tools help streamline communication between patients and healthcare providers, improve treatment coordination, and allow for remote monitoring. Additionally, we use artificial intelligence to analyse patient data, recognize trends, and tailor personalized treatment plans, ensuring we deliver the best possible outcomes for every patient.
What long-term goals do you have for Oceania Hospital in terms of expanding facilities, services, and technology adoption?
Our goals are focused on expanding our facilities, enhancing services, and embracing cutting-edge technology to ensure exceptional patient care. We are working on expanding our infrastructure by adding new wings and specialized units, such as an expanded ICU, emergency department, and surgical units, to meet growing patient demands. We also plan to establish wellness and rehabilitation centres to support preventive care and recovery, while exploring opportunities for geographic expansion to reach more people.
In terms of services, we are expanding our specialized care, including oncology, cardiology, neurology, and pediatrics. We are also growing our telemedicine services, making healthcare more accessible for remote or immobile patients. Our goal is to integrate services like nutrition counseling, mental health, and physiotherapy for a more holistic approach.
Technologically, we are investing in electronic health records systems, advanced medical equipment, and AI to improve care accuracy, enhance operations, and provide personalized treatment plans for better patient outcomes.
In what ways do you envision Oceania Hospital becoming a regional healthcare leader, and what steps will you take to achieve this status?
Our focus is to become a regional healthcare leader by prioritizing exceptional care, fostering innovation, and expanding our reach. Our foundation starts with patient-centred care, ensuring we provide high-quality, compassionate services. We’re investing in advanced medical technologies and fostering a culture of empathy to build trust and loyalty across the region.
To distinguish ourselves, we are expanding specialized services, including advanced diagnostics and surgeries, with centres of excellence in cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. Collaborating with healthcare providers, academic institutions, and research organizations will allow us to drive innovation and improve patient outcomes.
We are also committed to recruiting and retaining top-tier professionals, offering development opportunities and creating a supportive work environment. Embracing digital health innovations like telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and electronic health records will help improve accessibility and operational efficiency.
Community outreach programs are another key focus, as we aim to increase health literacy and provide preventive care. By expanding our facilities and focusing on strategic growth, we aim to become the preferred healthcare provider in the region.
With rising healthcare costs globally, how is Oceania Hospital managing the financial challenges associated with providing high-quality care?
We prioritize operational efficiency to manage rising costs while ensuring high-quality care. By optimizing operations, reducing wastage, and improving resource management, we are able to provide excellent care without overextending our financial resources.
We are also heavily investing in technology, which, while initially costly, enhances service delivery, improving patient outcomes and reducing long-term costs. Additionally, we are adopting cost-effective models like outpatient care and telemedicine, which help minimize expensive inpatient stays while maintaining care quality. Partnerships with insurance providers allow us to offer cost-effective care packages, benefiting both patients and the hospital’s financial sustainability.
We focus on staff development and retention, ensuring our team is highly trained and efficient, reducing turnover costs. Finally, by emphasizing preventative care and early intervention, we aim to reduce the financial burden of treating complex conditions, ensuring long-term sustainability while maintaining top-tier care.
Staffing shortages seem to be a global concern in healthcare; how is your hospital addressing workforce shortages and the impact on patient care?
Staffing shortages are a significant challenge in healthcare, and we are committed to addressing this issue to maintain the high standard of care our patients expect. To tackle workforce shortages, we are focusing on recruitment by actively seeking skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds and offering competitive compensation packages. We also emphasize retention through professional development programmes to support long-term career growth for our team.
Alongside strengthening our workforce, we are investing in advanced technology and streamlining processes to reduce the administrative burden on our staff. This allows them to spend more time with patients, enhancing care and reducing burnout.
By combining these strategies, we ensure that staffing shortages do not compromise the quality or safety of our patient care. Our commitment to innovation, staff support, and patient-centred care is key to navigating these challenges while continuing to provide exceptional healthcare.
The healthcare sector is becoming increasingly digitized. What are your thoughts on the future of telemedicine and AI in healthcare, and how is Oceania Hospital preparing for these innovations?
The healthcare sector is rapidly evolving, and digitization is leading the way. At Oceania Hospital, we are excited about the possibilities brought by telemedicine and artificial intelligence, which are transforming how we deliver care.
Telemedicine, which became essential during the COVID-19 pandemic, is here to stay. We are expanding our telemedicine platforms to make consultations and follow-ups more accessible, especially for patients in remote areas. This allows us to reduce pressure on physical infrastructure and deliver more efficient care.
AI is another game-changer. From predictive algorithms for early disease detection to machine learning models assisting in diagnoses, AI has the potential to improve patient outcomes significantly. We are exploring AI-driven tools to enhance diagnostics, robotic surgeries for precision, and streamline administrative tasks to optimize hospital operations.
We are also prioritizing data security, investing in robust cybersecurity to protect patient information. Training our staff is key to this transition, so we are providing ongoing support to ensure they make the most of these advancements, ensuring the best care for our patients.
What GRC measures does Oceania Hospital and how it contributes to its success?
I am indeed grateful to TOPCertifier and Mr. Ricky Devaya for making Oceania Hospital achieve ISO certification and this has enabled us to increase our position in the private hospital market sector. We understand that effective Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance are key to providing high-quality care and ensuring smooth operations. Our approach starts with a strong governance framework, where our experienced board oversees strategic decisions and ensures financial and operational transparency. This structure helps build trust and improves patient satisfaction.
In terms of risk management, we have robust strategies in place across clinical, operational, and financial domains. We regularly audit our clinical practices, follow evidence-based guidelines, and invest in staff training to minimize clinical risks. Operational risks, like supply chain disruptions and IT breaches, are actively managed to ensure seamless service delivery. Financially, we maintain strict controls to avoid overruns and fraud.
We also prioritize compliance, adhering to local healthcare regulations, national standards, and international accreditation. Ensuring data privacy and security is crucial, and we follow the strictest guidelines to protect patient information.
Additionally, our internal audits, quality assurance programmes, and ongoing staff training ensure we continuously improve. By focusing on GRC, Oceania Hospital delivers reliable care, meets legal requirements, and enhances patient trust—setting us up for long-term success in a competitive healthcare market.
How does Oceania Hospital plan to continue building relationships with international healthcare institutions and research organizations in the coming years?
At Oceania Hospital, we are committed to expand our global presence by building strong relationships with international healthcare institutions and research organizations. One of our main strategies is expanding collaborative research. We are actively seeking partnerships with global research entities to engage in joint studies, particularly in disease prevention and innovative treatments.
We also plan to host international medical conferences and workshops, bringing together top healthcare professionals worldwide for knowledge exchange and collaboration. Additionally, we are focusing on medical tourism by offering specialized services like advanced surgeries and fertility treatments, which will attract international patients and establish connections with global healthcare providers.
Telemedicine is another key focus, as it will allow us to collaborate with international specialists and provide remote consultations, offering our patients access to a broader network of expertise. We also aim to build academic partnerships with renowned universities to foster mutual learning and professional development.
Moreover, strengthening our involvement in international healthcare networks and partnering with NGOs and global health organizations will ensure we stay at the forefront of global health initiatives. By investing in cutting-edge medical technologies and embracing international accreditation, we are positioning ourselves as a leader in global healthcare collaboration, ultimately enhancing our reputation and influence worldwide.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments or achievements for you personally during your time at Oceania Hospital?
Working at Oceania Hospital has been incredibly fulfilling, and there are so many moments that stand out as significant achievements. First and foremost, improving patient care has been a rewarding aspect of my role. It is so gratifying to witness patients leave our hospital feeling better, knowing we have made a positive difference in their lives.
Building trust and strong relationships with patients and their families is another highlight. I take pride in knowing that our patients feel safe and well cared for. Being part of such a skilled, dedicated team of professionals has also been an achievement in itself. The collaboration across departments, especially during complex cases, has been incredibly rewarding.
Additionally, I have had the chance to grow professionally and lead initiatives that have positively impacted patient outcomes, like introducing a new patient follow-up system. Mentoring new staff and seeing them grow has been a privilege, as well.
Helping to improve processes within the hospital, promoting safety, and supporting patients during difficult times have also been meaningful accomplishments. Ultimately, knowing that I am contributing to the health and well-being of the community is the most fulfilling part of my role at Oceania Hospital. It is a privilege to be part of such a dynamic and impactful institution.
What aspect of healthcare leadership do you find most fulfilling, and how do you envision your leadership impacting the future of Oceania Hospital?
In healthcare leadership, I find the most fulfilment in the opportunity to make a direct impact on both patient care and the overall team environment. Leading with compassion and a focus on collaboration allows me to create a culture where both patients and staff feel valued and supported. Being able to guide an organization through the challenges of healthcare delivery, while also fostering innovation and improvement, is truly rewarding.
I envision my leadership plays a pivotal role in enhancing the hospital’s reputation for excellence in patient care. By focusing on continuous quality improvement, ensuring that we adopt the latest in medical technology, and investing in professional development for our staff, I believe I can help foster an environment that is patient-centred and forward-thinking. My goal would be to help establish Oceania hospital as a leader in healthcare services, where patients receive not just treatment, but also a comprehensive and compassionate experience.
In the long term, I see Oceania Hospital setting a standard for both patient outcomes and employee satisfaction, ensuring it remains a place where both the community and healthcare professionals trust and thrive.
How do you manage to maintain a healthy balance between your career and personal life?
One strategy I use is setting clear boundaries—after work hours, I disconnect from emails and calls to fully engage with my family and personal interests. Prioritization and effective time management are also key. I plan my week, identifying critical tasks so I can stay focused while allowing time for unexpected issues. Delegating responsibilities to my capable team frees up time to concentrate on strategic goals. I also make self-care a priority, whether it’s exercising or spending time with loved ones, ensuring I stay mentally and physically healthy. Lastly, I leverage technology to stay organized, but I am mindful not to rely too heavily on it. By maintaining this balance, I can remain committed to both my role and personal life, ensuring I am fully present in both.
Oceania Hospital is setting new benchmarks in healthcare by embracing innovation, expanding services, and placing patient-centered care at the heart of its mission. With a focus on cutting-edge technology, professional growth, and global partnerships, the hospital is committed to becoming a regional leader, providing exceptional care while building lasting relationships with patients and communities. This dedication to progress reflects the kind of stories and strategies shared by The Bizleader—offering valuable insights that empower professionals to drive meaningful change and stay ahead in an ever-evolving business landscape.
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