The Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi has inaugurated its state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber, a significant advancement in the treatment of chronic wounds, burns, decompression sickness, and diabetic foot ulcers. The launch was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Biman Prasad, who hailed the initiative as a critical milestone in addressing the extensive challenges posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes, which is a leading cause of premature mortality in Fiji.
During his address, Professor Prasad shared alarming statistics, highlighting that one amputation due to diabetes-related complications occurs every 12 hours in Fiji. He remarked, “The launch of HBOT is a major step forward in improving health outcomes and reducing the need for amputations,” emphasizing the urgent need for innovative healthcare solutions in the country.
The HBOT chamber will operate 24/7, aiming to significantly expedite recovery times for patients and help reduce the high rates of diabetes-related amputations. This new service is not only designed for local patients but also seeks to attract individuals from other Pacific Island nations, positioning Fiji as a healthcare leader in the region.
Professor Prasad expressed optimism that the introduction of this advanced therapy would encourage collaborations with regional healthcare providers and boost medical tourism, thus enhancing Fiji’s medical infrastructure and service potential. In conjunction with the HBOT launch, a new initiative, the Sugar Cane Growers Fund (SCGF) Loyalty Program, was introduced to offer healthcare discounts for local cane farmers, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to increasing healthcare accessibility for rural communities.
The implementation of HBOT represents a hopeful development in Fiji’s healthcare landscape, paving the way for improved treatment options and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for patients confronted with chronic health conditions. By embracing advanced medical technologies, Fiji is not only responding to immediate healthcare challenges but also laying a foundation for a healthier future.
Overall, this initiative signals a proactive approach to managing critical health issues, and it brings renewed hope for better health outcomes, benefitting both the local population and neighboring communities in the Pacific region.
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