THE 3rd China Medical Team (CMT) in Solomon Islands successfully conducted a medical outreach to Aola Community in East Central Guadalcanal Constituency on February 5 following an invitation from the constituency for the provision of free medical services.
Aola Community is located on the eastern side of Guadalcanal, in a remote area with poor road conditions. A round trip takes nearly seven hours. Due to long-term shortages of medical resources and medications, local residents have limited access to specialised healthcare.
Upon learning about the community’s medical needs, the CMT overcame various challenges to bring professional healthcare services to the grassroots population, helping more people in need.
After thorough preparations, the team set off early in the morning and after a bumpy four-hour journey, arrived at the Aola Community where they were warmly welcomed by the locals.
The event was led by the CMT Team Leader Dr Mu Mao, a consultant in infectious diseases. His team members included Dr Wei Bo, a Cardiologist, Dr Tang Yingqian, a Nephrologist, Dr Leon Zhong, a Urologist and two Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncturists Dr Daniel Li and Dr Gary Xu.
Following a brief rest, the free clinic began at 12:00 pm. The team provided medical consultations, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, as well as internal medicine, surgical and acupuncture treatments to over 120 medical seekers with complimentary, but necessary medications prescribed. Additionally, the team donated some medicines in short supply at the Aola Community Clinic and a blood pressure monitor.
As word spread about the CMT’s arrival, many local residents sought and received medical care. They expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the medical services provided.
A local resident Leedley, who had been experiencing discomfort in his neck and lower back, received acupuncture treatment at the clinic.
He said, “I’m very happy to try acupuncture for the first time today. It’s completely different from the treatments I’ve had before—very unique and amazing. It feels great!”
Leedley also expressed deep gratitude to the medical team for coming to his community and providing much-needed specialised care to many residents.
Winter Sino, a nurse from the local community clinic, welcomed and thanked the medical team on behalf of the community.
He said, “We sincerely appreciate the medical team for coming to Aola. Their visit has significantly benefited our community. It reflects the noble commitment of medical professionals to saving lives and embodies the strong friendship between China and Solomon Islands, as well as international medical cooperation.”
He also expressed his hope for further collaboration with the CMT to improve healthcare services in Solomon Islands and to build a strong partnership to build a community of health for all.
Team leader Dr Mu expressed joy in visiting Aola Community.
“Although the journey was long, we are delighted to be here. This visit has allowed us to strengthen mutual understanding and bring high-quality medical services to the local community.”
Looking ahead, the CMT will continue to extend its medical outreach to outer islands and grassroots communities, providing essential healthcare services to more residents in need.
