New cardiac lab to transform child heart care in Fiji

Children in Fiji and across the Pacific will now have greater access to life-saving heart treatment following the opening of a new Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital in Suva.

The facility, officially commissioned by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, is expected to significantly improve early diagnosis and advanced treatment of complex heart conditions.

The facility, officially commissioned by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, is expected to significantly improve early diagnosis and advanced treatment of complex heart conditions.

Fiji Government

“The inauguration of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory represents a significant leap forward. It will enable earlier diagnosis, advanced intervention, and life-saving procedures for children who would otherwise have limited access to such care.”

The Cath-Lab strengthens Fiji’s capacity to deliver specialised care locally, reducing the need for overseas treatment and bringing services closer to families.

President Ratu Naiqama said the initiative reflected a broader vision of service and compassion.

He acknowledged Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai and the One World One Family Global Humanitarian Mission for establishing the hospital in 2022 through private donations, alongside Government support.

The facility, officially commissioned by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, is expected to significantly improve early diagnosis and advanced treatment of complex heart conditions.

The President also highlighted the role of past and present leaders in supporting the facility, noting its continued impact in saving lives.

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai said the mission remained committed to ensuring no child was denied treatment due to financial constraints.

“In his remarks Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai emphasized the guiding principle of ‘One World, One Family,’ noting that the initiative reflects a shared vision of compassion and unity, where service transcends borders and all people are cared for with love and dignity.”

The new lab includes advanced bi-plane imaging technology, allowing doctors to view the heart from two angles in real time, improving precision, reducing procedure time and minimising radiation exposure.

Hospital director Dr Krupali Tappoo acknowledged partners, including Philips and local engineers, for supporting the installation.

So far, 445 children from Fiji and the Pacific have received free heart surgery at the hospital, with more expected to benefit as services expand.