Mauritius Health Crisis: Debt, Staff Shortages and Big Reforms Ahead

The public health system is struggling with a lack of funds and personnel. Health Minister Anil Bachoo attributes the dire state of public healthcare to massive debts accumulated over the years. Despite these challenges, he has proposed a reform plan aimed at achieving regional excellence.

Urgent Care and Cancer Prevention

As part of the reforms, emergency services will be reorganized to better utilize the current team of thirty emergency doctors.

Led by specialists, these doctors will improve triage times and standardize care for trauma, strokes, and heart attacks, boosting survival rates.

Cancer prevention is also a focus. A nationwide campaign will promote healthy lifestyles and early detection, including systematic mammograms for high-risk women.

However, the Ministry faces multiple obstacles in implementing these initiatives.

Debt and Payment Delays

During a speech to Parliament on June 19, Minister Bachoo revealed that the situation is worse than expected. Public health services are burdened with enormous debts, and some providers risk service disruptions due to unpaid bills.

The debts left by the previous government have made it difficult for service providers to collect what they’re owed.

Additionally, healthcare staff—particularly doctors and specialists working around the clock—have experienced months of delayed overtime pay, leading to frustration.

Reform Vision and Challenges

Despite the crisis, Bachoo remained optimistic. His ministry’s reform proposal is aiming to overhaul the failing system, striving for excellence, fairness, and sustainability.

He acknowledged the road ahead will be tough, but believes that strong determination, adequate resources, and careful planning can restore the system.

“Mauritian citizens deserve quality care, and this ambitious program is a firm commitment to that goal,” he said.

Calls for Accountability and Staff Retention

Healthcare unions emphasized the need to recover lost funds and hold those responsible accountable.

Dr. Meetheelesh Abeeluck, president of the Government Medical and Dental Officers Association (GMDOA), argues that authorities should trace the money trail and conduct thorough investigations with legal support.

“There’s no point blaming without taking action. There may have been misconduct, and sanctions are needed,” he stated.

A major challenge is restoring trust among public healthcare workers, many of whom are leaving for the private sector or abroad.

Dr. Abeeluck criticized the demand for doctors and specialists to work extra hours without pay, calling it unfair and inappropriate.

“Some refuse to do additional shifts until they are properly compensated,” he said.

Staff Shortages and System Management

The public health system also faces a severe staffing shortage. The previous administration built new facilities without hiring enough staff—doctors, specialists, paramedics, nurses, and administrative officers are all in short supply.

Regarding the mandatory 24/7 service for certain specialists (gynecologists, pediatricians, anesthetists), Dr. Abeeluck questions its feasibility.

If funds are lacking to pay extra hours, he suggests suspending the system. He noted that, contrary to expectations, the government now spends more on shift work for general practitioners than under the old system.

Doctors Versus Administrators

A debate existed over who should lead healthcare services. Dr. Abeeluck believed that doctors in leadership roles, such as Regional Health Directors, are better equipped to manage medical services because they understand the system.

He argued that managers can support but should not replace doctors, who are best suited for clinical decisions.

On the other hand, Dr. Mansoor Takun, a former pediatrician, argues that not all excellent doctors are good managers.

He pointed out that hospital administrators and health officials often lack formal management training, especially in handling large budgets. He advocates for hiring qualified non-medical managers supported by medical teams for clinical advice.

Looking Ahead

Defi Media sources indicated that the Ministry is planning to settle all debts inherited from the previous government quickly.

The goal is not just to repair buildings but to rebuild infrastructure and staff the system adequately. Minister Bachoo is envisioning a comprehensive overhaul transforming the health sector from near-collapse to a modern, efficient system.

He emphasized that these reforms aim for broader benefits: better health outcomes, increased economic productivity, and resilience against future shocks.

“Healthcare is not a luxury—it’s a key element of national prosperity,” he stated during the 2025/26 Budget debates.

Source: Defi Media