Aspen Medical has achieved a remarkable milestone in Fijian healthcare with the successful execution of the first cardiac stenting procedure at Lautoka Hospital’s Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory. This groundbreaking achievement enhances access to advanced heart care for patients across Fiji’s Western Division, marking a significant enhancement in local healthcare services.
The inaugural patient, 46-year-old Vimelsh Kumar from Votualevu, Nadi, had previously experienced a heart attack in August and was dealing with severe chest pain. Following the procedure, Kumar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the medical team, stating that it had granted him a new lease on life. Dr. Bharatvansh Bali, a specialist physician and cardiologist at Aspen Medical, led the operation, which was crucial due to a serious 99% blockage in Kumar’s right coronary artery.
Dr. Bali detailed that the stenting procedure, known medically as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is minimally invasive and involves a small wrist puncture for the insertion of a catheter and balloon. He noted that many patients can begin walking within hours of the procedure and may be discharged on the same day or the following morning, showcasing the rapid recovery associated with such advanced cardiac interventions now available locally.
Describing the successful stenting as a historic milestone for Lautoka Hospital, Dr. Bali highlighted the facility’s increasing ability to deliver specialized care. He emphasized that regular coronary angiograms are now performed, and this inaugural stenting event symbolizes the onset of expanded cardiac services designed to provide timely treatment for more patients without the burden of long-distance travel.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, has previously underscored the importance of advancements in healthcare, recognizing them as a testament to the government’s dedication to enhancing public health systems. By alleviating the need for families to travel great distances for critical care, these local healthcare developments promise to significantly improve patient outcomes and the overall well-being of the community.
The cardiac services offered at Lautoka Hospital, which include post-operative care, rehabilitation, medication, counseling, and dietary guidance, are available free of charge to Fijian citizens. This level of accessibility not only improves the standard of care but also signals a promising future for Fiji as it continues to evolve its healthcare framework. Enhanced local medical capabilities could also attract medical tourism, offering high-quality healthcare options in a picturesque setting that benefits both locals and visitors alike.