Due to unprecedented increase in the number of bodies being stored at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) morgue in Honiara, relatives of deceased patients have been advised to collect their loved ones’ bodies within 48 hours
The National Referral Hospital (NRH) management in a statement on Wednesday its important for relatives of deceased patients comply with the advisory. At the moment 18 bodies are being stored there.
NRH over the past weeks had seen an increasing number of deaths, resulting in the advisory.
Background and current situation
Due to the absence of a funeral home in the city, the NRH morgue remains the only available facility for the safekeeping of bodies awaiting repatriation, funeral arrangements, as well as those pending forensic examinations or post-mortems. At present, there are 18 bodies being stored at once, far exceeding the morgue’s optimal capacity. This congestion is causing significant concern among hospital authorities, who are struggling to maintain hygienic and dignified conditions within the facility.
Hospital’s appeal and policy measures
In response, NRH management is asking relatives to make arrangements for the prompt collection of deceased family members, ideally within 48 hours of their arrival at the morgue. The hospital is now considering activating a daily storage fee for bodies that remain uncollected beyond this time frame, in hopes of encouraging more timely retrievals and alleviating the strain on the morgue
Understanding the relatives challenges
However, hospital administrators acknowledge the difficulties that many families encounter during these times. Challenges such as financial constraints, travel logistics, and the need for legal or forensic clearances can impede the prompt collection of bodies. NRH management has expressed empathy for these challenges and affirmed its willingness to work with families wherever possible to resolve outstanding issues.
Ongoing concerns and the wayforward
The current situation highlights the urgent need for additional mortuary and funeral services in the city. As the only storage facility for deceased bodies, the NRH morgue is facing mounting pressure, and the lack of alternatives is an ongoing concern for both the hospital and affected families.
NRH management is urging community members, relevant authorities, and potential partners to consider long-term solutions, such as establishing a dedicated funeral home or expanding morgue capacity.
In the meantime, the hospital will maintain open communication with families and provide updates on any new policies or support services.
The NRH management reiterates its commitment to ensuring dignity and respect for the deceased, while balancing the operational realities of the hospital’s essential services.
- MHMS
