Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital is poised to fulfill the aspirations of the Fijian government by establishing Fiji as a prime health tourism destination, according to founder and managing director Parvish Kumar. He emphasized that the hospital is fully equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and specialized personnel to meet the needs of this specific segment of tourism.
Kumar remarked that the hospital aligns with government initiatives aimed at enhancing the health tourism sector, particularly highlighted by the establishment of a new cardiology department and the successful completion of its first open-heart surgery. The 100-bed facility, equipped with modern medical tools and expert staff, recently marked a significant milestone with its first successful coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery performed on 61-year-old Kusum Lata from Lautoka. The triple graft procedure, executed flawlessly by trained cardiovascular specialists, resulted in a swift recovery, allowing Lata to return home just a few days post-surgery.
Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka noted the importance of improving Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure to accommodate both locals and medical tourists. He pointed out that medical tourism has seen rising interest due to factors like affordability and quality of care, and Fiji aims to follow successful models seen in countries like India. In 2022, only about two percent of visitors participated in health-related activities in Fiji, indicating room for growth in this area.
To promote private investment in healthcare, the Fijian government has introduced incentives such as investment allowances for constructing or upgrading private hospitals, along with duty-free entry for certain medical equipment. Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, stated that raising awareness about Fiji’s healthcare capabilities was essential for attracting global patients and emphasized the beauty of Fiji as an ideal setting for recuperation.
Dr. Ram Raju, former president of the Fiji College of General Practitioners and current president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, heralded the successful surgery as a promising start not just for Nadi but for the entire country’s potential in handling complex medical procedures and enhancing Fiji’s reputation as a quality health tourism destination.
In summary, the establishment of the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital represents a significant step towards boosting health tourism in Fiji, with promising potential for further advancements and increased interest from international patients. The hospital’s commitment to quality care alongside government support could pave the way for Fiji to become a sought-after healthcare destination in the Pacific region. This positive trajectory offers hope for strengthening Fiji’s health infrastructure while enriching its tourism industry.
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