Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital (PSH) in Nadi is eagerly anticipating an influx of Australian visitors following Fiji Airways’ announcement of direct flights between Cairns and Nadi, set to begin on April 10, 2025. The founder and CEO of PSH, Parvish Kumar, highlighted the hospital’s position as a modern facility with 100 beds, conveniently located near Nadi International Airport. This strategic location aligns with the vision of the Fijian government to establish the nation as a premier destination for medical tourism.
Kumar emphasized that the new flight service, operating three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, will provide Australians with direct access to high-quality medical care upon their arrival in Nadi. He pointed out that Australian citizens, who represent the largest group of tourists in Fiji, can travel without a visa for stays of up to four months, further enhancing the appeal of medical tourism in the region.
The cost of medical procedures at PSH is significantly lower than in Australia, making it an attractive option for those in need of healthcare. For instance, a heart bypass surgery that could cost Australians around $100,000 can be obtained at PSH for a fraction of that expense. This is particularly relevant given the alarming statistics on cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Australia, which is the leading cause of death in the country, accounting for one in every four fatalities.
Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker praised the new flight connection for enhancing travel opportunities to Fiji, describing it as a wonderful destination for leisure or visiting family. He also remarked on Fiji Airways’ membership in the Oneworld alliance, which will facilitate even greater travel connectivity across North America.
In summary, the new Cairns-Nadi flights present a significant opportunity for PSH to expand its services to Australian patients, positioning Fiji as a favorable destination for medical tourism. This development not only benefits the healthcare sector but also promotes tourism and economic growth in Fiji, marking a positive step forward for both the healthcare industry and the local economy.
It’s encouraging to see how international collaborations like this can improve access to healthcare while providing economic benefits to the region, highlighting the potential of medical tourism as a growing industry in Fiji.
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