BY CHRIS ALEX
The Tangarare Area Health Centre, a vital healthcare facility in the remote parts of West Guadalcanal, has long been hindered by poor communication infrastructure, affecting service delivery and the ability to connect with the broader healthcare network.
However, recent developments have sparked a new wave of optimism for the clinic, as it has now been equipped with solar power and, more significantly, connected to communication services via Starlink.
Ray Seleso, Guadalcanal Health Director, expressed his eagerness about the transformation, stating that these improvements are a direct result of continued support from the Solomon Islands Government and a clear alignment with the Guadalcanal Province’s health strategic direction.
According to Seleso, these advancements will greatly enhance the centre’s operational capacity and its ability to serve the community.
“Thanks to the Solomon Islands Government and the collaborative efforts with Guadalcanal Province’s health strategy, we have been able to bring solar power to the clinic last month, and today, we are pleased to announce that it is now connected to Starlink,” said Seleso.
For years, the health centre faced the challenge of being in a communication black spot, making it nearly impossible for staff to maintain regular contact with their leadership teams, consult specialists, or send important reports. This created significant delays in service delivery and hindered timely medical interventions for the local population.
The recent installation of Starlink satellite internet provides high-speed and reliable communication access, enabling health workers to seamlessly connect with others across the region and beyond. Staff can now consult medical experts on urgent cases, send and receive patient information promptly, and coordinate better with provincial health authorities.
“This connectivity will make it easier for our health workers to do their jobs and save lives. They can now communicate with the Ministry of Health, send reports and updates, and also stay connected with their families, which is crucial, especially in rural and isolated areas,” said Seleso.
The positive effects of these developments will extend far beyond Tangarare Health Centre. As healthcare delivery improves in rural areas like West Guadalcanal, it also strengthens the overall health system of Guadalcanal Province. Remote clinics are now better equipped to manage health challenges, from everyday medical emergencies to long-term health care planning.
“We want to acknowledge and appreciate all those who have continued to support and strengthen rural health services in Guadalcanal Province. This partnership is an important step forward in our shared goal of improving healthcare in some of the most hard-to-reach areas of the province,” Seleso said.
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