Fijians seeking heart bypass surgeries can now save over $25,000 by choosing to undergo procedures locally at Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH), which has recently introduced this service in Fiji. This initiative brings essential cardiac care closer to home, eliminating the need for expensive overseas travel that was previously necessary for such treatments.
Kusum Lata, 56, from Lautoka, became the first patient to receive open-heart surgery at PSH, successfully completing a four-hour operation this Monday. Before this opportunity arose, she was advised by Lautoka’s Aspen Hospital to seek surgery in India, which would have cost her approximately FJ$54,000. Instead, she was able to undergo the procedure at PSH for less than a quarter of that cost.
Parvish Kumar, founder and CEO of PSH, stated that the launch of local cardiac surgeries represents a significant turning point in healthcare for Fiji and the Pacific region. “This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of our surgical team,” Kumar mentioned, highlighting that patients can now access world-class cardiac care at home, surrounded by their families and at a fraction of the cost.
PSH has assembled a skilled surgical team trained in leading international healthcare institutions, ensuring high clinical standards. Kumar noted that this first open-heart surgery at PSH was the culmination of 15 months of meticulous planning, investment in state-of-the-art technology, and collaboration among medical professionals. He emphasized that the initiative serves as a “beacon of hope” for cardiac patients in the Pacific.
The program at PSH aims for 100% success rates by implementing rigorous pre- and post-operative protocols and incorporating Fijian nurses into the care process. “Our Fijian nurses performed excellently, providing comprehensive care throughout the surgery process,” Kumar said, expressing pride in the hospital’s role in enhancing the accessibility of cardiac healthcare.
This initiative not only improves healthcare access for Fijians but also showcases the potential for advanced medical services to thrive locally, highlighting a bright future for healthcare in the region. As PSH continues to develop, many hope it will inspire further advancements in medical care across the Pacific.
In summary, the arrival of local open-heart surgery in Fiji is a significant development, emphasizing the importance of affordable healthcare access and the skilled local workforce. The success of this initiative may encourage more facilities to offer specialized services, ultimately benefiting the community at large.
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