By Nasratu Kargbo
Chairperson of the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospital Complex (USLTHC) Dr. Sonia Spencer has called for autonomy of the institution’s Board for better performance.
Speaking at a parliamentary sub-appropriation meeting yesterday, the medic said the board is not in total control of the six hospitals which form the teaching hospitals complex which contravenes what is stipulated in the Act that the board should take responsibility.
Explaining how lack of autonomy affects them in the execution of their duties, Dr. Spencer said they cannot hire, transfer or fire doctors, nor can they discipline or control them when the need arises, as stipulated in the Act. She sarcastically stated they are just board on paper.
She explained that the board of administration was established as an autonomous body, but that the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) has been reluctant in handing over the administration and management of the health facilities.
The Chairperson cited instances of doctors refusing to show up when summoned by the board, and challenging its authority instead.
She spoke of late disbursement of finances that are even inadequate making the board to fall short of its commitment.
“This inadequate funding is causing financial hardship on all six hospitals” she complained, and requested for increased financial support to hospitals under the free healthcare system.
Dr. Spencer called on parliament to advocate for inter-ministerial cooperation between the MoHS and sister ministries to meet their needs.
Speaking on achievements, she stated that the departments of paediatrics, internal medicine and psychiatry have received full accreditations to train residents up to consultant level.
Dr.Spencer added that the board has recruited 13 foreign consultants alongside 18 other Sierra Leonean consultants who provide training and services in the six hospitals comprising the Teaching Hospital Complex.
Amongst the board and complex’s primary mandate are the improvement of standards in healthcare delivery, training and research to support the government’s goal of human capital development in health sector, policy guidance, and advise and supervise the implementation of administrative functions.
Copyright © 2022 Politico (16/12/22)
