Six clinicians from the National Referral Hospital (NRH) are currently undertaking advanced clinical training in China under the China-Solomons Urology Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Program. Five participants are enrolled in a six-month attachment while one is completing a three-month placement at the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University.
The clinicians arrived in China on 22 September and have since completed orientation and begun hands-on specialty training. They are receiving practical experience through ward rounds, clinics, operating theatres, and simulation laboratories. Training areas include urologic and neurological minimally invasive surgery, anesthesiology, laboratory services, peri-operative nursing, and wound care.
The team is led by Dr. Denton Aota and includes Dr. Rocky Levao, Dr. Deanray Mark, Jarod Bobby, Melanie Maeletete, and Yolanda Bouro. Together, they represent the complete peri-operative team required to establish and operate enhanced specialist surgical services upon their return to Solomon Islands.
NRH Chief Executive Officer George Malefoasi emphasized that the training is a key investment in strengthening specialist healthcare services, particularly in surgery, neurology, and cardiology. He encouraged participants to learn from China’s advanced healthcare systems, especially in areas such as digital health, medical information systems, imaging, and laparoscopic procedures.
Head of Surgery Dr. Rooney Jagilly reminded the trainees that the attachment is a serious professional development opportunity, urging them to study not only surgical procedures but also hospital management, teamwork, infection prevention, and standardized clinical practices. Participants have been encouraged to keep detailed records of lessons that can be adapted locally.
Chinese Medical Team leader Dr. Chu Liangzhao described the program as helping build local capacity by equipping Solomon Islands health workers with new skills and knowledge.
The first cohort of trainees successfully introduced several minimally invasive urology procedures at NRH. This second group is expected to further expand specialist healthcare capabilities and improve the quality of patient care in Solomon Islands upon their return.
