The healthcare landscape in the Solomon Islands is a study in contrasts. For decades, the system struggled with aging infrastructure. However, the 2025 inauguration of the Comprehensive Medical Center (CMC) at the National Referral Hospital (NRH)—a massive project funded by international aid—has finally introduced specialized cardiology and urology services to the country.
Yet, for the surfer in Gizo, the diver in Uepi, or the expat in Honiara, the reality remains challenging. The “Hapi Isles” are a malaria hotspot, and while Honiara has improved, a serious accident in the Western Province still means a boat ride, a flight, and likely a $100,000 medical evacuation to Australia.
This guide is your survival manual. We will decode the new capabilities of the NRH, review the best private clinics for expats, and explain exactly what to do if you get “The Bends” while diving the Iron Bottom Sound.
The Landscape: Honiara Hub vs. Remote Reality
To navigate healthcare here, you must understand the severe geographical divide.
1. The National Hub (NRH & CMC)
- The Hub: National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara.
- The Reality: This is the only major hospital in the country. It handles all major trauma and surgeries.
- The Upgrade: The new Comprehensive Medical Center (CMC), opened in mid-2025, has added modern diagnostic equipment, dialysis, and specialized outpatient clinics, significantly reducing the need to fly abroad for some chronic conditions.
2. The Private Sector (Expat Clinics)
- The Hubs: eCall Health Center and Frontier Radiology.
- The Reality: These are outpatient clinics in Honiara. They are the first stop for expats and tourists. They offer air-conditioning, English-speaking GPs, and faster service than the NRH.
- Limitation: They do not have ICUs or operating theaters. For surgery, you go to NRH or fly to Brisbane.
3. The Provincial Hospitals
- The Hubs: Gizo Hospital (Western Province) and Kilu’ufi Hospital (Malaita).
- The Reality: These serve the outer islands. Facilities are basic. They can treat malaria and stitch wounds, but for anything complex (stroke, compound fractures), you will be transferred to Honiara.
Top Hospitals & Clinics in Solomon Islands: A Deep Dive
We have analyzed the facilities to bring you the most reliable options in 2026.
1. National Referral Hospital (NRH) – Honiara (Guadalcanal)
The backbone of the nation.
- Best For: Major Trauma, Emergency Surgery, and Dialysis (at the new CMC).
- Why it stands out: It is the only place with 24/7 emergency capability and a blood bank. If you are in a car accident, this is where the ambulance goes. The new Fracture Clinic (renovated late 2025) has improved orthopedic care significantly.
- Note: It is a public facility. Expect crowds and bring your own toiletries/bedding if admitted.
2. eCall Health Center – Honiara (Point Cruz & Henderson)
The modern private option.
- Best For: General Practice, Urgent Care, and Tourist Ailments.
- Why it stands out: Open 7 days a week with extended hours, eCall is the most reliable private clinic for travelers. Dr. Lazarus Tavichikai and his team are accustomed to treating expats and handling insurance paperwork. They have two locations: downtown and near the airport.
3. Frontier Radiology Health Centre – Honiara
The diagnostic specialist.
- Best For: X-Rays, Ultrasound, and Lab Tests.
- Why it stands out: If you think you broke a bone or need a tropical disease test without the hospital wait, Frontier is efficient and private. They provide digital imaging reports that you can easily send to doctors back home.
4. Gizo Hospital – Gizo (Western Province)
The lifeline for divers and surfers in the West.
- Best For: Stabilization and basic emergencies.
- Why it stands out: It is the second-best equipped hospital in the country, recently rebuilt after the tsunami years ago. It serves the major tourism hubs of the Western Province.
5. Tulagi Hospital – Central Province
The newly renovated historical hub.
- Best For: Stabilization near the Florida Islands.
- Why it stands out: Following a major World Bank-funded renovation in 2025, Tulagi now has an upgraded operating theater and imaging unit, making it a safer stop for those exploring the nearby wrecks.
📊 Comparison: Top Medical Facilities
Use this table to decide where to go based on your location.
| Facility Name | Location | Type | Key Strength | Best For |
| National Referral (NRH) | Honiara | Public | Trauma/Surgery | Major Accidents, 24/7 ER |
| eCall Health Center | Honiara | Private | Convenience | Flu, Cuts, Expats |
| Gizo Hospital | Western Prov. | Public | Regional Hub | Diving/Surf Accidents |
| Frontier Radiology | Honiara | Private | Diagnostics | X-Rays, Lab Work |
| Kilu’ufi Hospital | Malaita | Public | Regional Hub | Care in Malaita |
| Tulagi Hospital | Central Prov. | Public | Upgraded ER | Care in Central Islands |
| Helena Goldie Hospital | Munda | Public (Faith) | Remote Access | Care in Munda/Lagoon |
| Honiara Dive Chamber | Honiara (NRH) | Private/NGO | Hyperbaric | Decompression Sickness |
💡 Real Success Story: The Malaria Protocol
In the Solomons, a fever is guilty until proven innocent.
Case Study: The Surfer’s Fever
The Challenge: Ben, a surfer staying in a remote village on Malaita, developed high fever and chills. He thought it was sunstroke.
The Solution: The village nurse insisted on a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT).
The Protocol: The test was positive for Falciparum Malaria. Ben was immediately given Coartem (standard anti-malarial).
The Outcome: Because he started treatment within 12 hours, he recovered in 3 days. Had he waited to return to Honiara, cerebral malaria could have set in.
The Lesson: “I didn’t trust the village clinic at first, but that little test kit saved my life. Don’t wait for a ‘real’ doctor—trust the local nurses on Malaria.”
👉 Traveling to remote islands? Learn about Malaria prophylaxis here: https://www.myhospitalnow.com/forum/
Essential Tips for Patients & Tourists
1. Diving Safety: The Hyperbaric Chamber
- Status: There IS a hyperbaric chamber in Honiara (located at the NRH compound), managed by the Hyperbaric Partners Ltd / DOSI.
- The Catch: It is basic. While it can treat Decompression Sickness (DCS), it may not support critical care (life support) inside the chamber.
- Insurance: You MUST have DAN (Divers Alert Network) or equivalent diving insurance. Without it, you may be liable for massive costs or denied access to the chamber.
2. Medical Evacuation (Medevac)
If you suffer a stroke, heart attack, or complex fracture, you will be evacuated to Brisbane, Australia.
- Cost: $50,000 – $100,000 USD.
- Visa: You may need a Medical Treatment Visa for Australia. Your Medevac provider (like Medical Air Service) usually handles this logistics.
3. “Cash is King”
- Private Clinics: eCall and others accept cards, but power/network outages are common. Always carry Solomon Island Dollars (SBD) cash.
- Public Hospitals: Non-residents are charged fees. You often need to pay cash at the billing office before or after treatment.
4. Water Safety
- Tap Water: Do NOT drink tap water. It is not potable. Even in Honiara, stick to bottled water to avoid Typhoid and Dysentery.
- Ice: Avoid ice in drinks at smaller roadside stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is healthcare free in Solomon Islands?
For citizens, it is largely free. For tourists/expats, you must pay. Private clinics charge standard rates (approx. SBD 300–500 per consult).
2. Is there Malaria in Honiara?
Yes. Malaria and Dengue are present in the capital city. Use repellent (DEET) day and night.
3. Do doctors speak English?
Yes. English is the official language. Most doctors and nurses speak excellent English and Pijin.
4. Can I use my travel insurance directly?
Most private clinics will ask you to pay upfront and claim it back. Only for a Medical Evacuation will the insurance company pay directly.
5. Are there pharmacies open 24/7?
No. Pharmacies generally close by 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. On Sundays, finding an open pharmacy is very difficult. Bring a medical kit with you.
6. Is the water safe for brushing teeth?
It is recommended to use bottled water for brushing teeth, especially after heavy rains when water quality drops.
7. What is the emergency number?
999 (Police/Fire/Ambulance). However, taxis are often faster than public ambulances.
8. Are vaccinations required?
Measles vaccination proof is often required if coming from outbreak areas. Yellow Fever is required if coming from risk countries.
9. Is dental care available?
Yes. eCall Health Center has a dental unit (Henderson), and the NRH has a dental clinic. Services are basic (extractions/fillings).
10. How do I get from Gizo to Honiara in an emergency?
Solomon Airlines domestic flights are the main link. In a critical emergency, a helicopter or charter plane must be arranged, which requires insurance authorization.
Conclusion: Adventure with Caution
The Solomon Islands offer some of the last true frontiers for diving and exploration. But “frontier” means limited services. The new Comprehensive Medical Center is a huge step forward, but it doesn’t replace the need for evacuation insurance.
Pack your malaria meds, get your DAN insurance, and respect the remoteness of the islands.
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