By SHALENDRA PRASAD | Adapted for VBTC News

A Vanuatu resident has become the first international patient to receive world-class open-heart surgery in Fiji.

Gary Morrison, 57, is the general manager of a leading resort-based casino in Port Vila,

Mr. Morrison, who had been experiencing heart problems for five years, had not previously undergone any procedures apart from taking prescribed medication. Based on recommendations from a doctor in Vanuatu and encouragement from his wife’s family in Fiji, he decided to travel to PSH Hospitals for the surgery.

The surgery of an International patient boosts Fiji’s vision of becoming a leading medical tourism hub in the Pacific with the establishment of a state-of-the-art 130-bed specialty private hospital near Nadi International Airport.

Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH Hospitals) procedure on Mr. Morrison was part of a series of marathon surgeries conducted from Sunday, February 23, to Friday, February 28.

PSH founder and chief executive officer Parvish Kumar highlighted the hospital’s alignment with the Fijian government’s medical tourism aspirations.

“We share a common vision with the government and are working towards making Fiji a sought-after destination for medical tourism,” Mr. Kumar stated.

He further explained that since the commissioning of their multi-million-dollar cardiology department and catheterization laboratory (cath lab) in November last year, PSH has successfully performed numerous heart surgeries, including complex cases. The most recent milestone was treating their first international patient from Vanuatu, who has now been discharged following a successful operation.

The triple graft heart bypass surgery was led by renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Sanjeev Khulbey, who has over 30 years of experience in the field, supported by a team of highly trained cardiology specialists.

“The services I received at PSH were brilliant, fantastic, and among the best I could expect,” Mr. Morrison shared.

Following his surgery, he plans to stay in Fiji for a two-week recovery period before returning to Vanuatu. Given that open-heart surgery is not available in Vanuatu, Mr. Morrison stated he would recommend PSH Hospitals to family and friends in need of similar medical treatment.

“There are no issues or delays in coming to Fiji, with direct flights between Port Vila and Nadi operated by Fiji Airways, making it very convenient. When my condition was diagnosed, everything was arranged within two weeks, and now I look forward to returning home,” he added.

The success of this procedure marks a significant milestone for Fiji’s medical tourism sector, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in providing advanced healthcare services to the region.