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Illustration of Hyperbaric chamber boosts diving industry

New Hyperbaric Chamber Ignites Growth in Fiji’s Diving Sector

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Fiji’s diving industry is set to benefit significantly from the recent inauguration of a modern Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospital in Nadi. Launched on December 31, 2024, by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Prof. Biman Prasad, this advanced facility aims to enhance medical support for divers facing emergencies such as decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE).

The importance of the diving industry to Fiji’s economy is noteworthy; for instance, the shark-diving sector alone was valued at approximately $42.2 million in 2011. Understanding this economic significance, PSH has partnered with the Republic of Fiji Navy to provide essential services that address diving-related medical emergencies, thereby improving the safety and confidence of both local and visiting divers.

Hyperbaric medicine is crucial for effectively managing diving-related injuries, especially DCS, which occurs when divers ascend too quickly, leading to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body. Both 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 maximize recovery potential.

Dr. Vereniki Raiwalui, a consultant anesthesiologist at PSH, will oversee the new HBOT service, emphasizing that timely intervention is critical for achieving successful outcomes for diving-related conditions. Beyond bolstering services for divers, the introduction of this facility reflects a broader commitment to improving healthcare in Fiji, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases like diabetes. The alarming statistic of one diabetes-related amputation occurring every 12 hours highlights the urgent need for innovative healthcare solutions, and the hyperbaric chamber is anticipated to aid in chronic wound healing and reduce amputation rates.

In summary, the establishment of the hyperbaric chamber at PSH represents a significant stride for both the diving community and healthcare in Fiji. This initiative promises enhanced safety for divers while also positioning Fiji as a growing healthcare hub in the Pacific, ultimately suggesting a hopeful trajectory towards improved health outcomes for all Fijians and contributing to economic growth through tourism. This advancement not only ensures better medical support for diving activities but also reflects a commitment to fostering a healthier future for the entire community.

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