Fiji’s diving industry is set to benefit from a significant advancement with the recent 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 facility aims to enhance medical support specifically for divers facing emergencies such as decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE).

The contribution of the diving sector to Fiji’s economy is substantial; the shark-diving industry alone was valued at approximately $42.2 million in 2011. Recognizing the economic importance of this sector, PSH has partnered with the Republic of Fiji Navy to ensure divers have access to essential emergency services, boosting both their safety and the confidence of tourists engaged in diving activities.

Hyperbaric medicine is critical for effectively addressing diving-related injuries, particularly in cases of DCS, which occurs when divers ascend too quickly, leading to the formation of nitrogen bubbles. The South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) and the Divers Alert Network (DAN) recommend administering HBOT ideally within the first six hours of symptom onset to optimize treatment outcomes. Dr. Vereniki Raiwalui, the oversight physician for the new HBOT service, emphasized the urgency of timely intervention for achieving successful outcomes in diving-related emergencies.

In addition to enhancing support for divers, the establishment of the hyperbaric chamber reflects a broader commitment to tackling health challenges facing Fiji, such as rising rates of non-communicable diseases like diabetes. With alarming statistics revealing that one amputation occurs every 12 hours due to diabetes-related complications, the hyperbaric chamber is expected to play a vital role in chronic wound healing, ultimately helping to reduce the occurrence of severe health outcomes.

In summary, the opening of the HBOT chamber at PSH marks a transformative development for both the diving community and the healthcare landscape in Fiji. This initiative promises not only to enhance safety for divers but also positions Fiji as an emerging healthcare hub in the Pacific. This advancement is not just a win for divers; it holds the potential for improved health outcomes for all Fijians and supports economic growth through tourism. It represents a hopeful trajectory towards a healthier future, reinforcing the nation’s dedication to advancing healthcare services and enhancing the experiences of those exploring Fiji’s rich underwater landscapes.