Fiji’s diving industry is experiencing a significant transformation with the inauguration of a cutting-edge Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi. Officially launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, on December 31, 2024, this state-of-the-art facility aims to enhance medical support for divers facing emergencies like decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE).

The diving sector, particularly the shark-diving industry, has been a vital contributor to Fiji’s economy, generating approximately $42.2 million in 2011 alone. Recognizing this economic impact, PSH has joined forces with the Republic of Fiji Navy to ensure divers have access to critical emergency services, enhancing overall safety and bolstering tourists’ confidence in diving activities.

Hyperbaric medicine is crucial for treating diving-related injuries. Decompression sickness occurs when divers ascend too quickly, resulting in nitrogen bubbles forming in the body. Both the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) and the Divers Alert Network (DAN) emphasize that HBOT should be administered ideally within the first six hours of symptom onset for maximum effectiveness. The chamber at PSH, overseen by Dr. Vereniki Raiwalui, will play a pivotal role in this urgent care system.

Beyond supporting divers, the establishment of the hyperbaric chamber also underscores a commitment to addressing severe health challenges within Fiji, particularly non-communicable diseases like diabetes. Recent statistics highlight a grave issue: one amputation occurs every 12 hours in Fiji due to diabetes-related complications. The integration of HBOT is seen as a vital step towards improving recovery rates and ultimately reducing the need for such amputations.

In summary, the launch of the HBOT chamber marks a significant stride forward for both diving safety and healthcare infrastructure in Fiji. Not only does it promise enhanced safety for divers, but it also reinforces the nation’s potential as a burgeoning healthcare hub in the Pacific. This advancement signifies a hopeful future for the health of all Fijians, improving the overall quality of life in the community while supporting economic growth through tourism. The facility stands as a beacon of progress and a commitment to better health outcomes for present and future generations.