Lautoka Hospital's $11 million investment in state-of-the-art medical facilities which are set to transform healthcare services across the Western Division and Fiji, was officially opened today, 2 July 2025, by Deputy Prime Minister Honourable Professor Biman Prasad. 

This investment has introduced a state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory, an advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) suite, a dedicated Fast Track Unit in the Emergency Department and an Isolation Room – a crucial first of its kind in Fiji.

Aspen Medical’s CEO in Fiji, Gavin Whiteside, said, “This is not just an opening of new facilities. It is a major leap forward in how we care for our people—with precision, with compassion, and with innovation.

“These enhancements are not just about infrastructure—they are about respecting the dignity of every patient who walks through our doors.”

Professor Biman Prasad said, “These facilities will go a long way in providing the type of special care that we have longed waited for in this country. 

"As a government we have taken the delivery of health services at all levels very seriously. We recognise the deficit huge back log not only on health infrastructure but also in the delivery of health services in this country.”  

The ceremony culminated in a formal ribbon-cutting, symbolising the official launch of these vital healthcare services, followed by guided tours that offered guests a first-hand look at the advanced equipment and capabilities.

The new Cath Lab is now ready to perform critical procedures for heart conditions, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for specialised care. The MRI Suite will provide highly detailed imaging for accurate diagnoses, whilst the ED extension and Isolation Room will streamline emergency care for less critical cases. 

Through a Public-Private Partnership, Aspen Medical manages the public hospitals at Ba and Lautoka which together support more than one-third of the Fijian population.