Pacific Specialists Healthcare recently launched Pill Cams, also known as Capsule Endoscopy, prompting the hospital to order additional units to ensure continuous service. Parvish Kumar, the director and CEO of PSH, noted that the pill cam has become a highly sought-after service since its introduction.
“We have already placed orders for more, which we expect to receive within a week,” Kumar stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a seamless service. He mentioned that the hospital typically maintains a supply sufficient for at least three months to avoid shortages.
Kumar acknowledged the high interest in the new technology for diagnosing digestive issues, exceeding their initial expectations. “We anticipated a 4 to 5 percent increase in demand compared to conventional methods, based on literature from neighboring countries,” he said.
He underscored the benefits of this technology for detecting bowel cancer, recommending that individuals over 65 undergo the procedure every two years. “We were surprised by the number of people seeking this procedure,” he added.
The capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small capsule equipped with a camera that allows doctors to view the small intestine, a section difficult to examine through other methods. “Capsule Endoscopy offers a non-invasive option for visualizing the small bowel,” Kumar explained.
Additionally, PSH Nadi has seen an uptick in both tourists and locals seeking medical evaluations and treatments. Kumar mentioned instances of tourists needing urgent care before being evacuated through medical arrangements, attributing the rise in visitors to the hospital’s 24-hour operation and availability of medical professionals.
Looking ahead, Kumar revealed plans to introduce more advanced technologies to enhance healthcare in Fiji, with a goal of offering world-class medical procedures. “We are prepared to conduct open-heart surgeries and other intensive procedures,” he said, aiming to provide affordable options for local and regional patients while advocating for universal health coverage.