Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Professor Biman Prasad has paid tribute to internationally-acclaimed cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr Parma Nand.
In a statement, Prof Prasad expressed “deep sorrow,” describing Dr Nand as one of Fiji’s greatest medical professionals and a pioneer in specialist cardiac surgery.
“Dr Nand will be remembered in our history as one of the very best medical professionals and the most renowned cardiac surgeon to have hailed from Fiji,” Prof Prasad said.
Originally from Labasa, Dr Nand rose to international prominence in the field of cardiothoracic surgery, earning recognition and acclaim for his contributions to medicine.
Despite building a successful career abroad, Prof Prasad said Dr Nand remained deeply committed to his homeland, leading annual medical missions to Fiji since 2006.
These visits provided life-saving cardiac surgeries to local patients while also offering training and support to local medical personnel.
“This helped many, many patients, not only in terms of their health but also saved them from financial strain.
“The yearly visits also assisted local surgeons and medical professionals to gain invaluable experience.”
In addition to his surgical work, Dr Nand published widely in medical literature and was admired for his humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to Fiji.
Dr Nand passed away in Auckland, New Zealand, on Sunday, May 4.
