Access to quality health care in rural and remote Solomon Islands is undoubtedly daunting and hazardous.
Health Clinics in this context receive little or no assistance from the Solomon Islands government. They are run down and greatly in need of refurbishment including severely rusted roofs which need replacement, repainting inside and out, replacement of windows, mosquito mesh on the windows, new water tanks for drinking water and replacement of their toilet block. Clinics are also very poorly equipped with an urgent need for updating medical equipment, such as BP machine, pulse oximeter, blood glucose monitor, infrared thermometer etc., plus the provision of beds and trolleys.
Many communities are very remote and have no serviceable roads so that, in the event of a health emergency, they must rely on boat travel to get the help they need. Hospitals can be several hours away by boat and the lives of both nurse and patient are put at risk when they are forced to use borrowed boats that are not regularly serviced nor seaworthy. In addition, sometimes boats simply aren’t available.
In partnership with World Relief Australia, this project will support brave, solo nurses who serve in remote districts. Wonderful nurses like Jessica Tarihahia, who has an amazing track record of working at Hauhui Clinic will be provided with improved facilities, equipment and safe, reliable transport so that the community will experience better health care and improved health outcomes.
Local communities are generally very proactive and involved with their rural health clinic and will be providing the labour. They are overwhelmed to know that help is on the way. Your support could make immediate positive changes to health outcomes for them.
Key Areas of Investment
- Undertake clinic renovations including roof replacement, new gutters and water tank, painting, timber repairs, window repairs with mosquito netting, male/female toilet repairs.
- Provide updated medical equipment, a delivery bed, patient beds/trolleys and medical furniture.
- Provide a safe, sea-going boat and motor with life jackets and navigation lights.