Australia

Top 5 Cancer Care Hospitals in the Solomon Islands

27 February 2025

The Solomon Islands lack specialized cancer hospitals like those found in larger countries. However, several key healthcare facilities offer limited cancer-related services. Understanding these options is crucial for patients seeking care within the country.

1. National Referral Hospital (NRH) – Oncology Unit

Location: Honiara

Overview: NRH serves as the primary center for cancer treatment in the Solomon Islands, providing essential oncology services.

Key Features:

Chemotherapy services: Provides drug-based treatment for certain types of cancer.
Cancer management support: Assists patients in managing symptoms and treatment plans.
International collaboration: Established with support from international health organizations to improve cancer care.

Despite its limitations, NRH remains the best available option for cancer patients in the Solomon Islands.

2. Gizo Hospital

Location: Gizo

Overview: A major hospital outside of Honiara, Gizo Hospital provides general medical services with some basic cancer-related care.

Key Features:

General healthcare services: Offers treatment for various medical conditions.
Limited cancer support: May provide preliminary cancer evaluations and symptom management.
Referral system: Can refer patients to NRH for further cancer treatment.

While Gizo Hospital does not specialize in oncology, it plays a vital role in healthcare for those living outside the capital.

3. Tulagi Hospital

Location: Tulagi

Overview: This hospital offers general medical services, with a focus on preventive healthcare.

Key Features:

Basic health screenings: May conduct early detection tests relevant to cancer.
Primary healthcare services: Provides medical care for common illnesses.
Lack of specialized oncology care: Patients requiring advanced treatment must seek care elsewhere.

Tulagi Hospital serves as an important facility for basic health services, though specialized cancer treatment is unavailable.

4. Noro Area Health Centre

Location: Noro, Western Province

Overview: A health center offering general medical care with limited cancer-related services.

Key Features:

Primary healthcare services: Focuses on basic medical needs and disease prevention.
Potential cancer screenings: May offer preliminary evaluations for cancer patients.
No oncology specialization: Patients needing advanced cancer treatment must travel to NRH or abroad.

While limited in resources, Noro Area Health Centre contributes to community health by offering essential medical care.

5. Kilu’ufi Hospital

Location: Kilu’ufi, Malaita Province

Overview: Provides general healthcare services, including preventive care.

Key Features:

Basic health screenings: May include tests relevant to early cancer detection.
General medical treatment: Covers a wide range of healthcare services.
No dedicated oncology services: Patients requiring cancer treatment must be referred to NRH or overseas hospitals.

Kilu’ufi Hospital plays an essential role in regional healthcare, despite its lack of specialized oncology services.

Challenges Facing Cancer Care in the Solomon Islands

Patients in the Solomon Islands face multiple obstacles in accessing cancer treatment:

Limited Oncology Facilities: There are no dedicated cancer hospitals, and oncology services are minimal.
Lack of Specialized Equipment: Radiotherapy and advanced diagnostics are not available locally.
Medical Evacuation Needs: Many cancer patients require treatment in Australia or other countries.
Financial Barriers: The cost of travel and treatment abroad is prohibitive for many families.
Delayed Diagnoses: Limited screening and awareness programs contribute to late-stage cancer detection.

Potential Solutions for Improving Cancer Care

To address these challenges, several steps can be taken:

Strengthening Early Detection Programs: Expanding cancer screening initiatives can help catch the disease at earlier, more treatable stages.
Increasing International Collaboration: Partnering with global health organizations can improve resources and funding for cancer care.
Training Medical Professionals: Investing in oncology education for local doctors and nurses can enhance cancer treatment services.
Developing Telemedicine Services: Utilizing digital healthcare can connect local doctors with international specialists for remote consultations.
Expanding Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the population on cancer risks and prevention strategies can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Cancer care in the Solomon Islands remains a significant challenge due to limited facilities, medical resources, and specialized personnel. The National Referral Hospital in Honiara provides the most comprehensive oncology services, but many patients still require overseas treatment for advanced care.

Investments in early detection, medical training, and international partnerships can help improve the current system. Until these improvements take effect, understanding the available healthcare options is crucial for those navigating cancer treatment in the Solomon Islands.