By: Saidu Jalloh
The Surgeons in Action Foundation, a medical organization based in Spain, in partnership with Foundation CZ-Bisturi Solidario, has strengthened its collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police Hospital by donating a state-of-the-art ventilation machine valued at over $50,000 to the Sierra Leone Police Hospital in Kingtom on Tuesday 3rd December 2024.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance medical support and training for the Sierra Leone Police, led by Dr. John Mumuneh Konteh, who aims to align with the vision of Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, to improve the well-being of police officers.
This marks the Surgeons in Action Foundation’s fourth visit to Sierra Leone, where it has conducted free surgical operations not only for police personnel but also for members of the local community. This recent mission focused specifically on advancing surgical capabilities at the Sierra Leone Police Hospital.
Dr. Konteh emphasized the significance of the newly donated anaesthesia machine, which is essential for ensuring that patients remain unconscious and pain-free during surgeries. The machine delivers a controlled mixture of gases and anaesthetic agents, facilitating safe and effective surgical procedures.
The main components of the anaesthesia machine include, gas supply ensures a steady supply of medical gases such as oxygen and nitrous oxide, flowmeters, monitor and control the flow of gases delivered to patients, vaporizer Converts liquid anaesthetic agents into vapour for patient delivery, breathing circuit Connects the machine to the patient for efficient gas exchange, scavenging system, protects healthcare workers by removing excess anaesthetic gases.
Monitors, track vital signs, including heart rate and oxygen levels, and ventilator Assists or takes over patient breathing during procedures.
Dr. Konteh reported that the medical team registered 287 patients nationwide, successfully screening 247 and performing surgeries on 140 individuals. Among these, 15 were police officers, 54 were children, and 71 were community members. Despite facing some challenges, the operations proceeded successfully.
Additionally, the Surgeons in Action Foundation has supported one of our personnel, Dr. Paul Clements Fillie, who is currently pursuing specialty training in general surgery in Uganda. Dr. Konteh emphasized the importance of continued support for the Sierra Leone Police’s medical professionals to further elevate standards of care at the hospital.
“This partnership has significantly improved health outcomes for our police personnel and community members,” stated Dr. Konteh. He announced plans for the team to return in March 2025, reiterating their ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare in Sierra Leone.
This collaboration with the Surgeons in Action Foundation exemplifies the impact of international partnerships in strengthening local healthcare capacities within the Sierra Leone Police.