Aspen Medical has marked a significant milestone in Fijian healthcare with the successful completion of the first cardiac stenting procedure at Lautoka Hospital’s Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory. This achievement expands access to advanced heart care for patients in Fiji’s Western Division, signaling a transformative step in local healthcare capabilities.
The inaugural patient, 46-year-old Vimelsh Kumar from Votualevu, Nadi, had previously suffered a heart attack in August and was experiencing severe chest pain. Following this procedure, Kumar expressed his gratitude to the medical team, noting that it had given him a renewed lease on life. Dr. Bharatvansh Bali, a specialist physician and cardiologist at Aspen Medical, led the procedure, which was necessary due to a critical 99% blockage in Kumar’s right coronary artery.
Dr. Bali explained that the stenting procedure, formally known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is minimally invasive, utilizing a small wrist puncture for catheter and balloon insertion. He noted that many patients can start walking within hours and may even be discharged within the same day or the following morning. This rapid recovery highlights the benefits of advanced cardiac interventions being available locally.
Dr. Bali described the successful stenting as a historic moment for Lautoka Hospital, evidencing the establishment’s growing capacity to provide specialized care. He emphasized that coronary angiograms are now conducted regularly, and this first stenting marks the beginning of expanded cardiac services aimed at helping more patients receive timely treatment without the need to travel far from home.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, has previously highlighted the importance of such developments, noting they reflect the government’s commitment to improving public health systems. By reducing the strain on families who previously needed to travel long distances for critical care, local advancements in healthcare can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes and overall community well-being.
The cardiac services at Lautoka Hospital, including post-operative care, rehabilitation, medication, counseling, and dietary guidance, are provided free of charge to Fijian citizens. This accessibility not only enhances the quality of care but also represents a hopeful future as Fiji continues to develop its healthcare landscape. Enhanced local capabilities can potentially attract medical tourism, providing high-quality healthcare options in a beautiful setting, benefiting both the local community and visitors alike.