BY JOY OFASIA
The newly opened Naha Urban Health Centre has set several firsts for Honiara City Council and Solomon Islands’ urban health services, marking a significant step towards modern, efficient and patient centred healthcare delivery in the capital.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Minister for Health and Medical Services Hon. Morris Toiraena said the new facility was the first Health Centre Level 2 in Solomon Islands, bringing a range of primary healthcare and diagnostic services together under one roof.
“This is a new level of health facility providing all facets of primary health care under one roof,” Minister Toiraena said.
The centre provides expanded services including dental care, pathology, medical imaging, a community pharmacy and comprehensive primary healthcare.
It is also fitted with Solomon Islands’ first nurse call system, designed to alert staff when a patient requires additional medical attention.
Another new feature is an electronic queuing system for frequently used services, including dental and outpatient care. Patients will receive numbered tickets at reception and can wait in designated areas, including the garden and downstairs until they are called.
Minister Toiraena said the facility represented “a big step up for Solomon Islands” and would establish a new standard for safe and efficient healthcare delivery.
He announced that the Urban Health Services would commence operations from the following day.
The second part of the facility is the Naha Birthing Centre, which will provide birthing services for low-risk mothers. With five birthing suites, the centre is expected to help reduce overcrowding in the labour ward at the National Referral Hospital.
However, the birthing centre will open at a later date while preparatory works are completed to ensure safe deliveries. The Ministry will announce when the service is ready to commence.
Minister Toiraena acknowledged Australia’s support in funding the design, construction, fit out and commissioning of the facility under the Solomon Islands Australia Health Partnership.
He also called on the Honiara City Council, Ministry of Health, Naha community and health workers to work together to maintain the facility and ensure quality services.
“Together we can ensure this great facility stands the test of time and lives to serve our women, children and every person that comes to seek the healthcare they need,” he said.
