Fiji’s diving sector has received a significant boost with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi. Officially launched on December 31, 2024, by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Prof. Biman Prasad, this advanced facility will enhance medical support for divers, particularly addressing emergencies related to decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE).

The shark-diving industry alone contributed an impressive $42.2 million to Fiji’s economy in 2011, underscoring the importance of diving to the nation’s tourism sector. In light of this contribution, PSH has partnered with the Republic of Fiji Navy to ensure that divers have access to vital emergency services, enhancing both safety and confidence among tourists.

The newly installed hyperbaric chamber is specifically designed to address diving-related complications. DCS occurs when divers ascend too quickly, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the body. HBOT has been recognized as a critical treatment for this condition, with the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) and the Divers Alert Network (DAN) advocating for immediate intervention within the first six hours of symptom onset to maximize effectiveness.

Dr. Vereniki Raiwalui, a consultant anesthesiologist at PSH, will oversee the new HBOT service, highlighting the facility’s critical role in improving outcomes for divers facing these severe conditions. The introduction of this technology not only facilitates prompt treatment but also offers a broader commitment to enhancing healthcare in Fiji, particularly in light of the country’s challenges with non-communicable diseases like diabetes.

With troubling statistics indicating that one amputation occurs every 12 hours due to complications from diabetes, the hyperbaric chamber aims to reduce such rates while promoting overall health. The advanced chamber provides hope for improved recovery from chronic conditions, reinforcing Fiji’s dedication to its healthcare infrastructure and enhancing its appeal as a medical tourism destination.

In summary, the launch of the hyperbaric chamber at PSH signifies a landmark advancement for both the diving industry and healthcare in Fiji. It enhances safety for divers, while simultaneously creating opportunities for improved health outcomes for the wider community. This initiative not only aims to bolster the local economy through tourism but also shines a light on Fiji’s potential as a burgeoning healthcare hub in the Pacific, paving the way for a healthier future for its citizens.