[Madagascar: from Isoavinandriana to Soavinandriana or the remarkable history of the Girard and Robic Hospital].

The history of the Soavinandriana Hospital is remarkable for several reasons. The oldest hospital on the island, this institution is the product of the combined efforts of English Christian missionaries, French colonists, and native Madagascans. Its history has always been closely linked to political events in Madagascar and the successive names often reflect Franco-Malagasy relations. The hospital which was long the crown jewel of the "colonial" health corps still provides a framework for harmonious cooperation between French and Malagasy military physicians. The institution has always been on the forefront of medicine in Madagascar and, despite current problems, is still the best-equipped health facility on the island. Thanks to the quality of care and the dedication and competence of its staff, the hospital has succeeded in maintaining patient attendance from all classes of society. The hospital which in its over 100-year history has witnessed two momentous occasions with the visits of the last Queen and the first President of the Republic now stands on the threshold of a renaissance and could become a model for successful Franco-Malagasy cooperation.