Fiji’s diving industry is poised for considerable growth with the recent inauguration of a modern Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi. Officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, on December 31, 2024, this facility aims to significantly enhance medical support for divers, particularly in response to emergencies like decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE).

The diving sector, notably the shark-diving industry, contributed an impressive $42.2 million to Fiji’s economy in 2011, marking it as a crucial component of the nation’s tourism. Acknowledging this economic impact, PSH has collaborated with the Republic of Fiji Navy to provide vital resources and ensure effective care for those engaged in diving activities.

Hyperbaric medicine has been recognized as an essential treatment for divers facing DCS, a condition that arises due to rapid ascents leading to nitrogen bubbles forming in the body. The South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) and the Divers Alert Network (DAN) both advocate for HBOT to be administered within the first six hours of symptom onset to maximize treatment effectiveness.

The introduction of this advanced chamber not only improves access to urgent medical care for divers but also enhances the overall safety and confidence of tourists partaking in outdoor adventures in Fiji. Dr. Vereniki Raiwalui, who will oversee the new HBOT service, highlighted that the timely provision of care could lead to better outcomes for those affected by diving-related injuries.

Furthermore, amid Fiji’s ongoing struggle with non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes, the hyperbaric chamber represents a broader commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure. The alarming figure of one amputation occurring every 12 hours due to diabetes underscores the need for innovative treatments that HBOT can provide, aiding in wound healing and potentially reducing amputation rates.

In summary, the new hyperbaric chamber at PSH marks a significant advancement for both diving safety and healthcare in Fiji, signaling a positive trajectory towards better health outcomes for divers and the wider population. This facility not only enhances the captivating diving experiences that Fiji offers but also positions the country as a burgeoning healthcare hub in the Pacific, bringing hope for improved health management and economic growth through tourism.