The Sai Prema Foundation has successfully performed 421 free heart surgeries for children across Fiji and the South Pacific, resulting in significant savings of more than $42 million for families. This remarkable initiative is facilitated through the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Heart Screening Centre.
During a report to Parliament on Thursday, Minister for Health Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted the comprehensive impact of the foundation, revealing that it has conducted heart screenings for 39,515 children. These screenings are offered not only at the center in Nasese, Suva, but also through various outreach programs that reach rural villages and maritime regions of Fiji, as well as neighboring South Pacific islands.
Dr. Lalabalavu praised the Sai Children’s Hospital, which relies heavily on volunteer specialist teams from overseas to provide life-saving pediatric cardiac services. He also noted significant government support for the hospital, with the allocation of $4 million for both the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 financial years, and a slight decrease to $3,913,043 planned for the 2025-2026 financial year. This financial backing is crucial in ensuring that Fijian children have access to complex cardiac procedures at no cost.
This initiative not only enhances the health of children in Fiji but also alleviates financial burdens on families, demonstrating a strong commitment to healthcare equity in the region. By providing these essential services locally, the Sai Prema Foundation and the government are making significant strides in improving the lives of children facing serious health challenges.
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