Community, health and provincial leaders came together in Tulagi this week for the first Central Islands Provincial Health Summit to identify practical solutions for improving health services across Central Islands Province.
The Summit, from 14 to 18 September, was organised by the Central Islands Provincial Health Service, with support from Australia, as part of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) national rollout of the Primary Health Care Performance Initiative (PHCPI) to strengthen primary health care services in the provinces.
Over five days, participants reviewed the strengths and challenges of health services across Central Islands Province and agreed on practical actions to improve access to care. Discussions focused on locally led priorities and solutions, recognising that strong health services depend on partnerships between communities, health workers and leaders.
Minister for Health and Medical Services, Honourable Morris Toiraena, said provincial leadership is essential to improving health outcomes across Solomon Islands.
“Achieving better health outcomes requires strong partnerships, effective leadership, and community participation,” said Hon. Toiraena.
“Through this Provincial Health Summit, we are strengthening accountability, promoting evidence-based decision-making, and supporting provinces to develop practical actions that will improve service delivery and health outcomes.”
Central Islands Province Health Director, Mr James Poloso, said the summit helps community voices be reflected in future planning.
“This summit is an important opportunity for Central Islands Province to listen to communities, understand the challenges facing our health workers, and agree on practical actions that will strengthen health services closer to where people live,” said Mr Poloso.
Australian High Commissioner, Jeff Roach, said healthy communities depend on strong local services.
“The greatest strength of Central Islands Province will always be its people – the health workers, community leaders, women and young people, provincial leaders, and families who support and sustain the health system every day,” High Commissioner Roach said.
“When local leaders come together to identify challenges and create solutions, the results are more practical, sustainable and responsive to community needs.”
During the summit, clinics across the province also received new water tanks, tools and other essential items funded by Australia. The practical upgrades respond to priorities identified by provincial health authorities and will help improve access to water, support frontline health workers, and strengthen services for communities across Central Islands Province.
The Summit and support provided to the clinics form part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Australia to strengthen locally led planning and improve health services across Solomon Islands.
