[Photo: Mollyn Nakabea]

The regions’s first ever biplane cardiac cath lab was officially opened at the Sai Prema Children’s Hospital.

The three-million-dollar facility is a high-tech examination room specialized in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases through minimally invasive procedures.

The lab was funded through donations from local donors, as well as Fijian families based in the USA.

Sai Prema Children’s Hospital Director Dr Krupali Tappoo says the lab will improve complex cardiac treatment expanding the hospital’s services for the country and the region.

“The addition of this highly sophisticated facility will elevate the standard of care to unprecedented heights, enabling more advanced, minimally invasive, diagnostic and interventional cardiac procedures, improving patient outcomes and further strengthening its position as a center of excellence for pediatric cardiac care in the region.”

Sai Prema Foundation Director Sumeet Tapoo says the facility opens a new chapter for healthcare in Fiji.

“This is not just an inauguration of a facility. This is the beginning of a new chapter in the healthcare journey of Fiji. A chapter where hope becomes stronger, where access becomes equal, and where life is given another chance.”

President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu says developments like the cath lab greatly benefit Fiji and other Pacific island nations.

“Fiji acknowledges to a very big extent the great generosity of his people. For supporting these magnificent developments. Especially in developing countries such as ours and our Pacific neighbors where resources are limited.”

A pediatric cardiology team from New Zealand will be conducting procedures in the newly opened cath lab from the 27th of April with nine children already identified for the procedures.