Fiji’s diving sector is set to see significant growth with the recent inauguration of a state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi. Officially launched on December 31, 2024, by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, this advanced facility is designed to enhance medical support for divers, addressing critical emergencies such as decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE).

The importance of the diving industry to Fiji’s economy is underscored by the fact that the shark-diving sector alone contributed an impressive $42.2 million in 2011. Recognizing this substantial impact, PSH has partnered with the Republic of Fiji Navy to ensure divers have access to essential emergency services, bolstering both safety and the confidence of tourists participating in diving activities.

Hyperbaric medicine is crucial for managing injuries related to diving, particularly DCS, which results from rapid ascents causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the body. Both the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) and the Divers Alert Network (DAN) recommend that HBOT should be administered as soon as possible, ideally within the first six hours of symptom onset, to maximize recovery potential. The new chamber at PSH will be overseen by Dr. Vereniki Raiwalui, a consultant anesthesiologist, who emphasizes timely intervention as critical for successful outcomes.

In addition to enhancing safety for divers, the launch of the hyperbaric chamber also reflects a broader commitment to tackling serious health challenges within Fiji, particularly non-communicable diseases like diabetes. With alarmingly high rates of diabetes-related amputations—reportedly one occurring every 12 hours—the HBOT service may play a transformative role. It holds the potential to assist in healing chronic wounds and reduce the frequency of such severe health outcomes.

In summary, the establishment of the hyperbaric chamber at PSH marks a pivotal advancement for both the diving community and healthcare in Fiji. This initiative not only promises enhanced safety for local divers but also positions Fiji as a burgeoning healthcare hub in the Pacific. Furthermore, it signifies a hopeful trajectory towards improving health outcomes for all Fijians, ultimately supporting economic growth through tourism.

This positive development is expected to foster a healthier future for the community, providing essential medical services while enhancing the delightful diving experiences that make Fiji a sought-after destination for tourists.