Sugarcane farmers in Fiji can now benefit from affordable healthcare services through the newly launched Sugar Cane Growers Fund (SCGF) Loyalty Program. This significant initiative was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, during the opening of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi. The program aims to provide discounted healthcare services to approximately 10,500 active cane growers, acknowledging their essential contributions to the nation’s economy.

Professor Prasad emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the sugar farming community, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is often 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 not only addresses the immediate healthcare needs of farmers but also aligns with broader efforts to modernize Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure, which includes key projects such as the establishment of a new 100-bed super-specialty hospital funded by the Indian Government.

Parvish Kumar, CEO of PSH, noted that the program will significantly uplift the overall well-being of sugarcane farmers by leveraging their collective buying power to offer essential medical services at reduced rates. Plans are also underway to extend these healthcare services to additional regions, including Labasa, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that emphasize health and wellness.

In summary, the SCGF Loyalty Program represents a significant advancement for Fiji’s sugarcane farmers, promising improved access to healthcare and contributing to the sustainability of the agricultural community. This initiative illustrates the government’s commitment to enhancing the lives of those who play a critical role in sustaining the nation, reinforcing their invaluable contribution to Fiji’s economic vitality. This positive development bears hope for a healthier future for the farming community, showcasing a collaborative effort to support and uplift the agricultural sector.