Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital (PSH) in Nadi is eagerly anticipating an influx of Australian patients, following Fiji Airways’ announcement of new direct flights from Cairns to Nadi, set to begin on April 10, 2025. With this service planned to operate three times a week—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—Australians will have increased access to the hospital’s cutting-edge medical facilities.
Parvish Kumar, the founder and CEO of PSH, highlighted the hospital’s strategic proximity to Nadi International Airport, just a short distance away. He emphasized the shared vision between PSH and the Fijian government to position Fiji as a premier destination for medical tourism. This collaboration aims to attract tourists seeking health services in a more cost-effective manner.
Kumar noted that Australian citizens, who represent the largest group of visitors to Fiji annually, can enter the country without a visa for stays of up to four months, making this an appealing option for those seeking medical treatment abroad. He pointed out that medical procedures in Fiji could be significantly more affordable than in Australia, with heart bypass surgery costing a mere fraction of the approximately $100,000 price tag back home.
The urgency for accessible healthcare is underscored by alarming statistics about cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Australia, which ranks as the leading cause of death, affecting one in every four Australians. In 2021, CVD was responsible for 42,700 deaths, accounting for 25% of all fatalities. Alarmingly, one Australian dies from CVD every 12 minutes.
Richard Barker, CEO of Cairns Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the new flight connection, noting that it would enhance access to the South Pacific, encouraging both tourism and familial visits. He also mentioned the benefits of Fiji Airways’ membership in the Oneworld alliance, which could further expand connectivity to North America.
This development represents a promising future for medical tourism in Fiji, aligning healthcare accessibility with the growing trend of cross-border medical services. With direct flights making it easier for Australians to seek quality care, PSH stands ready to welcome a wave of new patients, offering them both affordability and high-quality medical options.
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