Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital (PSH) in Nadi is eagerly anticipating an influx of Australian patients following the announcement of direct flights from Cairns to Nadi by Fiji Airways, starting on April 10, 2025.
Parvish Kumar, the founder and CEO of PSH, highlighted the hospital’s strategic position as a modern 100-bed facility located conveniently near Nadi International Airport. He emphasized the shared vision between the hospital and the Fijian government to transform Fiji into a prominent medical tourism destination. Kumar stated, “We share a common vision with the government and have begun initiatives to make Fiji an appealing option for those seeking medical treatment while also enjoying a vacation.”
The newly introduced flights, operating three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, will provide faster access to high-quality medical care in Fiji. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, making it easier for Australians to reach the hospital directly upon landing.
Notably, Australian travelers will benefit from visa-free entry into Fiji for stays under four months, which adds to the convenience of accessing medical services. Kumar explained that PSH is prepared to offer medical procedures at significantly lower costs compared to Australia. For instance, while a heart bypass surgery in Australia can cost around $100,000, the same procedure at PSH is available for a fraction of that amount.
The urgency for such services is underscored by alarming statistics regarding cardiovascular disease in Australia, which remains the leading cause of death. In 2021, it accounted for 42,700 deaths, representing 25% of all fatalities in the country. This equates to a troubling statistic of one Australian dying from cardiovascular disease every 12 minutes, emphasizing the need for accessible and affordable healthcare solutions.
Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker has expressed enthusiasm about the new flights, seeing them as a gateway that opens up the South Pacific for both leisure and family visits, further enhanced by Fiji Airways’ connections across North America through its Oneworld membership.
In summary, the commencement of direct flights signifies a promising development for both medical tourism and accessible healthcare in Fiji, allowing more Australians to receive quality treatment in a beautiful environment while enjoying the benefits of lower costs and seamless travel options. This could represent a significant shift toward prioritizing health and wellness travel in the region, making Fiji not only a vacation destination but also a viable option for essential medical care.
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