The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) proudly announces the successful completion of a week‑long Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgical mission by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) at the National Referral Hospital (NRH).
Building on strong momentum from missions in 2024 and 2025, the visiting specialists worked side‑by‑side with Solomon Islands clinicians to deliver advanced, life‑changing care, while strengthening local surgical capability.
Over the course of the week, the RACS team completed 11 critical operations, including six major and five minor ear surgeries. They also conducted intensive outpatient consultations, assessing a wide range of conditions, reducing waiting lists, and establishing clear pathways for ongoing specialist care.
The impact of the mission is best illustrated through patients’ lives. Among them is an 11‑year‑old child who had been unable to attend school due to hearing loss. Following successful treatment, the child has now regained hearing and can return to the classroom, opening the door to education and opportunity.
“The success of this mission underscores RACS’ commitment to strengthening surgical systems and improving equitable access across the Pacific,” said Dr Nirmal Patel, ENT Lead Surgeon. “By working closely with our colleagues at NRH, we are delivering immediate care while transferring skills that support long‑term, sustainable outcomes.”
The mission also focused on the future. RACS specialists and Solomon Islands health leaders have progressed plans to train local doctors in ENT specialisation, with a program expected to commence in 2027, marking a major step toward self-reliance in specialist care.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, highlighted the value of the partnership:
“This mission demonstrates the real power of collaboration. Working side by side, Australian and Solomon Islands health teams are delivering life‑changing care today while building the skills and systems needed for tomorrow.”
The mission was funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Pacific Specialised Clinical Health Services Program, reinforcing the strong and enduring partnership with MHMS.
MHMS extends its sincere appreciation to the RACS team, the Australian Government, and the dedicated staff of the National Referral Hospital for their continued commitment to delivering high-quality care to communities across Solomon Islands.
Find out more about RACS Global Health https://tinyurl.com/28m4dz53
