The Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital (PSH) is poised to transform Fiji into a prominent health tourism destination, according to its founder and managing director, Parvish Kumar. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and a team of skilled specialists aimed at tapping into the health tourism market.
Kumar emphasized that PSH aligns with the Fijian government’s vision to enhance the health tourism sector, highlighting the recent establishment of a cardiology department and the successful completion of its first open-heart surgery. This modern facility has 100 beds and has already achieved a milestone with its first successful coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery performed on 61-year-old Kusum Lata. The surgery, involving a triple graft, was conducted without complications, with the patient discharged shortly afterward following a smooth recovery.
Tourism minister Viliame Gavoka noted the necessity for developing Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure to better serve both locals and medical tourists. Medical tourism is influenced by factors such as affordability and quality of treatment, with Fiji aiming to follow in the footsteps of countries like India, which is known for attracting patients from various regions for healthcare services. In 2022, only about two percent of visitors engaged in health-related activities in Fiji, which underscores the need for growth in this sector.
The Fijian government is encouraging private investment in healthcare through incentives for the construction and renovation of hospitals. This includes tax concessions and duty-free imports for medical equipment, designed to bolster private healthcare facilities.
Brent Hill, chief executive of Tourism Fiji, noted the importance of showcasing Fiji’s medical capabilities to patients worldwide. He expressed optimism that Fiji offers an ideal recovery environment in beautiful settings, facilitating successful treatment outcomes.
Dr. Ram Raju, former president of the Fiji College of General Practitioners and current president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described the recent surgical achievements as a significant milestone not only for Nadi but for the entire nation. He sees this event as an indicator of the burgeoning potential in health tourism, signaling a promising future in the medical sector.
In summary, the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital is making strides in positioning Fiji as a competitive player in health tourism through advanced medical services and government support aimed at expanding healthcare infrastructure. The successful surgery achievements and government incentives point towards a brighter and more promising future for healthcare in Fiji.
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