Sugarcane farmers in Fiji are now set to benefit from affordable healthcare through the newly launched Sugar Cane Growers’ Fund (SCGF) Loyalty Program. This initiative, which provides discounts on healthcare services to approximately 10,500 active cane growers, was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, during the inauguration of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi.

During the announcement, Professor Prasad emphasized the government’s steadfast commitment to supporting the agricultural community, particularly those in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. He stated, “This partnership with PSH ensures that farmers have access to affordable healthcare and demonstrates our commitment to improving health services.”

The SCGF Loyalty Program is part of a broader strategy aimed at modernizing Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure. This includes significant projects such as the development of a new 100-bed super-specialty hospital funded by the Indian Government. Parvish Kumar, CEO of PSH, noted that the program will leverage the collective buying power of sugarcane farmers to offer essential medical services at reduced rates, thus uplifting the overall well-being of these farmers who play a vital role in sustaining the country’s economy.

Furthermore, plans are in progress to extend these healthcare services to additional regions, including Labasa, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that focus on health and wellness. This initiative not only addresses the immediate healthcare needs of sugarcane farmers but also signifies a hopeful step toward enhancing the sustainability of the agricultural community in Fiji.

In summary, the SCGF Loyalty Program represents a significant advancement for Fiji’s sugarcane farmers, promising improved healthcare access while reinforcing their crucial role in the national economy. This collaboration between the government and healthcare providers illustrates a proactive approach to supporting an essential sector, ultimately enabling a healthier future for the farming community and the nation as a whole.