Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital (PSH) in Nadi is preparing to attract a growing number of Australian patients, following Fiji Airways’ announcement of new direct flights from Cairns to Nadi, which will commence on April 10, 2025. Parvish Kumar, the founder and CEO of PSH, emphasized the hospital’s strategic position near Nadi International Airport, allowing for convenient access to its facilities, which align with the Fijian government’s initiative to transform the nation into a premier destination for medical tourism.

The new flights will operate three times a week—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—reducing travel time to just about four and a half hours. This accessibility is especially appealing to Australians, who comprise the largest segment of tourists visiting Fiji and are not required to obtain a visa for stays under four months.

Kumar pointed out that medical procedures at PSH are significantly more affordable compared to home costs in Australia. For example, while heart bypass surgery can cost around $100,000 in Australia, it is available at PSH for a fraction of that price. This affordability is particularly important given that cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death in Australia, responsible for approximately 42,700 fatalities in 2021 alone, highlighting the urgent need for accessible medical services.

The commendation from Richard Barker, CEO of Cairns Airport, for the new flight service illustrates its potential to enhance tourism in the South Pacific. He noted that this initiative not only provides a pathway for Australians seeking healthcare but also offers a great opportunity for leisure travel, networking, and family visits. The additional benefit of Fiji Airways’ membership in the Oneworld alliance enhances travel connectivity to North America, which could further promote Fiji as a tourism and health destination.

This development raises a hopeful outlook for both medical tourism and the local economy. As PSH positions itself as a go-to facility for Australians in need of affordable healthcare, it contributes to a growing trend that could lead to significant health and economic benefits for Fiji. The blend of high-quality medical services and beautiful natural surroundings presents a compelling case for patients, making Fiji a potential leader in medical tourism in the region.