The Pacific Specialist Healthcare Foundation has been recognized for its significant efforts in providing medical care to underserved communities. At the official launch of the PSH Foundation, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad emphasized that the Foundation’s initiatives align with national healthcare priorities.
Since its start in 2016, the Foundation has rapidly grown, offering medical services like gynecology, plastic surgery, cardiology, urology, and orthopedics—fields that were previously unavailable or unaffordable for many in the region. Parvish Kumar, the Chief Executive of the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Foundation, noted that the organization is dedicated to delivering hope to families in health crises, particularly those struggling financially. Kumar stated, “Access to healthcare should be a fundamental right. It shouldn’t be the case that treatment is only available to those with financial means.”
Professor Prasad added that the PSH Foundation’s focus on providing free or low-cost surgeries is commendable, stressing the need for government collaboration with private sectors to improve healthcare delivery. Plans to introduce cancer treatment within Fiji aim to reduce the necessity for patients to travel abroad for care, addressing a critical healthcare need. Professor Prasad highlighted that cancer accounts for approximately 11% of total deaths in Fiji, largely attributed to lifestyle factors.
The anticipated introduction of radiotherapy by the Foundation is expected to enhance cancer treatment options locally, alleviating both the financial and emotional burdens often experienced by patients and their families. He assured continued governmental support for organizations like the PSH Foundation that actively contribute to the enhancement of healthcare in the nation.
The progress being made by the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Foundation exemplifies a significant shift toward equitable healthcare access, demonstrating a commitment to transforming the medical landscape in Fiji and setting a hopeful precedent for future developments in healthcare equity throughout the wider Pacific region.
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