By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
In a recent briefing at the Miatta Conference Centre, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, outlined significant advancements in the nation’s healthcare system, highlighting a transformative shift towards a patient-centered, life-stage approach designed to achieve universal health coverage.
Dr. Demby reported a remarkable 76% reduction in maternal mortality rates, positioning Sierra Leone among the fastest improving countries globally. He also noted substantial enhancements in infant survival rates and consistent vaccination coverage exceeding 95% over the past five years.
Addressing the efforts to manage Mpox, the Minister stated, “We have seen a dramatic decline from over 5,200 reported cases at the peak to single-digit daily cases, with several days recording zero new infections nationwide.”
In a bid to bolster the health workforce, Dr. Demby announced the recruitment of 5,000 new health workers, with an additional 3,000 positions currently available through a newly established electronic recruitment portal. This system, created in collaboration with the Health Service Commission and the Human Resource Management Office, is designed to ensure that hiring is conducted strictly on merit, eliminating prior practices of influence.
“This initiative represents an exciting opportunity to cultivate a skilled and professional health workforce,” Dr. Demby emphasized, asserting that these reforms are essential for enhancing service delivery and ensuring quality healthcare for all citizens.
In closing, the Minister expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio and the Ministry of Finance for their steadfast support, affirming that Sierra Leone is making significant strides toward achieving universal health coverage.
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