Pacific Specialists Healthcare has recently introduced Pill Cams, also known as Capsule Endoscopy, leading the hospital to place additional orders to ensure uninterrupted service. Parvish Kumar, the director and CEO of PSH, indicated that the demand for the pill cam procedure has surged since it was announced.
“We have already placed orders for more capsules expected to arrive within a week to avoid any disruption,” Kumar stated. He emphasized the hospital’s policy to maintain a supply that lasts at least three months to ensure consistent availability.
Kumar highlighted the importance of supply chain logistics to minimize interruptions and mentioned ongoing efforts to improve this further. He expressed surprise at the high demand for the new diagnostic technology, originally anticipating a demand increase of approximately 4 to 5 percent over conventional methods based on regional literature.
“This technology is crucial for detecting bowel cancer, and individuals over 65 should undergo this procedure every two years,” he noted. The responses from patients seeking the procedure exceeded expectations.
The capsule endoscopy system involves swallowing a small, ingestible capsule equipped with a camera that allows doctors to visualize the entire small bowel—an area difficult to access through traditional endoscopy methods. The capsule captures images of the digestive tract as it passes through.
Additionally, PSH Nadi has seen an increase in the number of tourists and locals seeking medical checks and treatment. Kumar mentioned instances of tourists requiring urgent medical attention, which the facility provided before arranging their return home through medical evacuation.
The hospital’s 24-hour operation has attracted more patients, bolstered by the availability of expert medical practitioners. Looking ahead, Kumar shared plans to introduce more advanced technologies to enhance healthcare delivery in Fiji.
“My goal is to offer world-class medical procedures and treatments to both Fiji and the Pacific Islands,” he said. He also expressed commitment to providing affordable medical options, recognizing the financial challenges faced by many locals and residents of neighboring Pacific islands. Kumar, a local who understands the healthcare landscape, aims to continually seek ways to improve healthcare financing and promote universal health coverage.