Story by Tommy Esau, Research Worker

Last week the Atoifi Health Research Team visited four clinics in East Malaita to collect the data from Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) for Syphilis and Yaws and to interview people about their experience in using RDTs in four clinics – Gounabusu, A`arei, Nafinua and Atoifi hospital in East Kwaio. The research team was led by James Asugeni, and included Hillary Toloka and Tommy Esau.

The purpose of the study was to access the acceptability, feasibility and cost effectiveness of using this test kit in the Solomon Islands. For two days the team visited the clinics to collect data and talk with the health workers and patients about the RDT test that has been trial during 2016 and 2017.

Most clinics visited described the RDTs for Yaws and Syphilis as being a very useful test for remote clinics where health facilities are limited. A health worker from Nafinua stated that “the test is cost- effective compared to what we have experienced before; where you have to wait for a long time, and usually takes a long process before result can be available. But this one as soon as you do the test result is available.” Another health worker from Namola`ela`e clinic also stated that the new test was good for patients and clinics and should be rolled out in other remote clinics in Solomon Islands.

For more information about this study, please contact Rowena Asugeni, Director of Research, Atoifi Adventist Hospital rowenaasugeni[at]gmail.com or Dr Jason Diau, Chief Medical Officer at Atoifi Adventist Hospital jaseydiau[at]gmail.com

Photo: Hillary Toloka (L) and James Asugeni (R) meet with Susan, Nurse, Gounabusu clinic