A mother from Lautoka, Kusum Lata, made history on Monday by becoming the first Fijian to successfully undergo heart surgery at Fiji’s only locally owned private hospital. At 56 years old, Lata expressed her deep gratitude towards the surgeons and medical staff at Pacific Specialist Healthcare, led by CEO Parvish Kumar.
Her heart operation came as a significant relief, particularly given the daunting costs associated with similar procedures abroad. Earlier this year, after suffering a heart attack, Lata was informed that the total expenses for surgery in India, including airfare and related costs, would amount to approximately $23,000 USD. This hefty sum left her feeling hopeless about her health and financial situation.
Lata’s journey took a positive turn when she learned that PSH was beginning to offer heart surgeries locally. After her initial checkup, she became the first patient to receive a heart operation at the facility. She shared her excitement and surprise at the quality of care available right in her home country, allowing her to recover alongside her family, which would not have been possible had she gone overseas for treatment.
Lata encourages fellow Fijians to consider this local option for heart surgery to avoid the high costs associated with overseas treatments. She noted that she paid less than a quarter of the price she would have faced in India for similar medical services. Following her operation, she is feeling considerably better and optimistic about her recovery.
This story highlights the importance of expanding local healthcare services that can provide affordable and effective treatments, empowering patients and fostering hope within the community. It is a testament to the capabilities of Fiji’s healthcare system and its continuous growth. The success of Kusum Lata’s operation not only marks a milestone for her personally but also signals progress for the nation’s medical facilities.
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