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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, presented the country’s innovative healthcare delivery model at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) event, emphasizing a shift towards integrated, person-centered care.
The event, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Buffett Foundation, was chaired by WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
In his address, Dr. Demby outlined Sierra Leone’s transition from traditional vertical disease monitoring systems to a comprehensive life-stage model that prioritizes patient-centered care. He highlighted the importance of data in enhancing health outcomes and facilitating strategic planning.
A crucial innovation discussed was the Pregnancy App, which tracks and monitors every pregnant woman in the country. The initiative is complemented by the establishment of an Emergency Situation Room, which is tasked with tracking and investigating maternal and child deaths in health facilities nationwide.
Dr. Demby noted, “These systems have enabled timely interventions and contributed to a dramatic reduction in maternal mortality—by over 70%.” He further stated that the current maternal mortality rate stands at 343 per 100,000 live births, a notable achievement for the nation, although he expressed a commitment to reducing the figure even further.
Despite allocating approximately 11.6% of its GDP to the health sector, Dr. Demby acknowledged that the limited size of Sierra Leone’s economy constrains the impact of the investment. He stressed the necessity for sustainable financing and international support to enhance the healthcare supply chain and broaden access to services.
Dr. Demby further announced the forthcoming rollout of SLeSHi, the national health insurance scheme designed to alleviate out-of-pocket expenses for citizens. He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the critical role of quality data in ensuring equitable and efficient resource allocation, urging international partners to continue their support for Sierra Leone’s data-driven health reforms.
The Buffett Foundation reportedly remains a key international ally in advancing Sierra Leone’s health initiatives.
