Lautoka Hospital has made remarkable strides in cardiac care, performing 285 open-heart surgeries and 322 angiograms since the launch of advanced cardiac services. Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu announced that the open-heart surgeries commenced in October 2022, while the catheterization laboratory services were introduced in May of this year.
These cardiothoracic services are part of a public-private partnership with Health Care Fiji Pte Ltd, and they are implemented in collaboration with MIOT Investment (Fiji) Pte Ltd and MIOT Hospitals Pvt. Limited in India. This partnership aims to enhance the availability and accessibility of specialized medical care within Fiji, significantly reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.
The statistics were revealed in response to a question from Opposition MP Parveen Kumar regarding the total number of cardiac procedures conducted at Lautoka Hospital. Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that this initiative reflects the country’s commitment to expanding specialized healthcare services locally.
The introduction of these advanced cardiac services resonates with previous reports highlighting the establishment of a Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory in Fiji, creating opportunities for real-time cardiac diagnostics and interventions. Such advancements are pivotal in providing timely and necessary care to patients, further supporting their recovery and reducing travel burdens associated with seeking medical treatment.
As these services continue to develop, they not only promise to improve healthcare access for the Fijian population but also position Fiji as an emerging destination for medical tourism. The enhanced medical capabilities can attract international patients seeking high-quality care in a beautiful setting, potentially boosting the local economy.
The ongoing improvements at Lautoka Hospital signify a hopeful trend in healthcare advancement, reflecting collective efforts to uplift medical standards and health outcomes for all Fijians.