Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH), recognized as the largest specialist private hospital in the South Pacific, has put forward a noteworthy proposal for tax incentives specifically aimed at health providers serving both local and international patients. This initiative was introduced by PSH’s CEO, Parvish Kumar, during the Nadi Chamber of Commerce Business Forum 2025 held last Friday.
Kumar highlighted the hospital’s role in providing medical care to patients from various regions, including the Pacific, USA, Italy, Germany, and Australia, underscoring the potential of medical tourism in Fiji. To enhance this sector further, he emphasized the necessity of not only improving physical infrastructure but also advocating for policy support. Key components of his proposal included streamlined visa processes, collaborative frameworks between government and private hospitals, and partnerships with Tourism Fiji.
Central to Kumar’s proposal was the suggestion of a VAT waiver or refund system tailored for medical tourism, akin to the VAT refund scheme available to tourists. He argued that such measures would provide a competitive edge on international platforms and significantly reduce healthcare costs for locals, lowering their out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, he called for state support for local charities that offer free medical services, thereby promoting economic inclusivity and a healthier population, which he believes is critical for Fiji’s economic future.
The forum centered around “Fiji’s Economic Preview: The Next Fiscal Budget and Beyond,” a theme Kumar deemed vital for fostering a prosperous nation, stating, “health is not a line item, it is the foundation of every other sector—from tourism to agriculture to education.”
Echoing sentiments from previous discussions on enhancing Fiji’s healthcare landscape, Kumar mentioned the ongoing challenges posed by Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) that affect productivity, as many Fijians continue to seek treatment abroad. He proclaimed that every challenge in healthcare serves as an opportunity for innovation and is a call to action for improving local health services.
Importantly, Kumar announced the launch of the PSH Foundation, a new initiative aimed at funding free surgeries for underprivileged individuals, particularly those requiring cardiac and neurological procedures. He positioned this venture as a means of fostering hope and inclusivity, advocating for government and corporate donor support.
This approach reflects a growing recognition of the interconnectivity between health and economic development in Fiji. The push for medical tourism represents a promising opportunity not only for enhancing healthcare access but also for stimulating economic growth, potentially transforming the nation’s health landscape into one that serves both residents and visitors effectively.
With continued advocacy and strategic investments, there is optimism that Fiji can establish itself as a competitive player in the global medical tourism arena, promising better healthcare outcomes for all.
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