Sugarcane farmers in Fiji are set to benefit from an innovative and supportive healthcare initiative with the launch of the Sugar Cane Growers’ Fund (SCGF) Loyalty Program. This program, announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Professor Biman Prasad during the inauguration of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi, aims to provide affordable healthcare services to approximately 10,500 active cane growers across the nation.
Professor Prasad emphasized that the SCGF Loyalty Program is not just about healthcare; it embodies the government’s dedication to supporting the agricultural community, particularly in rural areas where access to medical facilities has historically been limited. He stated, “This partnership with PSH ensures that farmers have access to affordable healthcare and demonstrates our commitment to improving health services.”
The program is a part of broader efforts by the Coalition Government to modernize Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure. This includes ambitious projects, such as constructing a new 100-bed super-specialty hospital funded by the Indian Government, as well as renovations to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. These advancements aim to enhance the healthcare landscape, providing much-needed resources for those who contribute vital work to the economy.
Parvish Kumar, CEO of PSH, explained that leveraging the collective buying power of sugarcane farmers will allow the initiative to offer essential medical services at reduced rates, positively impacting their overall well-being. Furthermore, plans are in place to extend healthcare access to other regions, including Labasa, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals focusing on health and wellness.
In summary, the SCGF Loyalty Program marks a significant step forward for Fiji’s sugarcane farmers, promising improved access to healthcare while highlighting the critical role of this sector in the national economy. By ensuring that those who contribute to the agricultural landscape can lead healthier lives, this initiative represents a hopeful future, fostering a collaborative environment between the government and healthcare providers aimed at nurturing the farming community. The partnership underscores a commitment to the health and vitality of Fiji’s agricultural sector, ultimately supporting the well-being of a crucial portion of the population.
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