The new dental clinic at Atoifi Adventist Hospital in East Kwaio, Solomon Islands, has officially opened after 10 years of development and construction.
Led by Australian dentist Dr Genna Levitch in partnership with ADRA Australia, Atoifi Adventist Hospital and the Solomon Islands Ministry of Health, the clinic will provide free dental care for more than 60,000 people in the region.
Construction was finalised earlier this year with the help of Australian builder Wilbur Clarke, his volunteer team and local workers. The clinic features two dental chairs and facilities built to Australian standards using donated materials and equipment from across the dental industry.
“This clinic will make a huge difference for people who previously had to travel two days for dental care,” said Dr Levitch.
Dr Ellison Vane, director of dental services for the Solomon Islands, described it as a model for future partnerships. “This is the first clinic in the Solomons built to Australian standards,” he said. “It’s a fantastic achievement.”
The facility will be operated by local practitioner Max Asugeni as part of Atoifi Adventist Hospital’s community health services.
