BY JOY OFASIA
FOR years, Ellen Miza Vunagi Jilini, the Nursing in Charge for Naha Clinic, has worked in overcrowded facilities with limited resources. Now, as the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre nears completion, she reflects on the profound impact this new health facility will have on both healthcare workers and patients.
“This clinic is going to change lives,” Ellen told SOLOMON WOMEN. “It will provide high-quality birthing and healthcare services for Naha and surrounding Honiara communities, reducing pressure on the National Referral Hospital for many primary health care issues and non-complicated births.”
Ellen shared that the current clinic often has to turn patients away due to capacity issues.
“For years, we’ve had to turn patients away due to capacity,” she explained. “But with this new space, we’ll be able to serve more people efficiently and with the compassion they deserve.”
Having been in charge at Naha Clinic for over a year, Ellen is excited to finally work in a space that meets the needs of both staff and the community.
“It’s going to be amazing to finally work in a space that meets the needs of both the staff and the community,” she said with a smile. “I can’t wait to see the doors open.”
Ellen expressed her gratitude to the Australian government for funding the facility, as well as to the Ministry of Health, the National Referral Hospital, and the builders working on the project.
“Biggest acknowledgement goes to the Australian government for the funding of this facility. Thank you also to the Ministry of Health, NRH, and the builders who have been working hard each day on the construction site,” she said.
The Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre is a flagship project worth SBD 150 million, which will not only benefit Honiara but the entire Solomon Islands.
“Not only us, but the whole country is looking forward to the completion of this facility. People from all provinces in the Solomon Islands will have access to this new health centre,” Ellen said.
