By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
In an effort to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of nationwide medical referrals, the National Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) recently held a three-day capacity and functionality review meeting at the Wizard Conference Hall* on Dambala Road, Bo City.
The meeting brought together officials from the District Health Management Teams (DHMTs), NEMS staff, and senior leadership from the Ministry of Health, with the goal of assessing NEMS’ performance and strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders to improve healthcare delivery across Sierra Leone.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Songor Kondor-Yormah, Chief Executive Officer of NEMS, described the institution as the primary unit responsible for overseeing all medical referrals in Sierra Leone. He explained that the purpose of the dialogue was to provide a platform for open and honest reflection on NEMS’ successes and areas for improvement. According to Dr. Kondor-Yormah, the review meeting is part of a broader strategy to tackle both internal and external challenges facing the health sector.
He emphasized the crucial role of District Medical Officers (DMOs), who represent the Ministry of Health at the district level. Dr. Kondor-Yormah further stressed that the meeting aimed to foster greater synergy between stakeholders, reduce siloed operations, and improve oversight within the emergency medical system. He also highlighted NEMS’ demonstrated success in responding to emergencies, which has played a significant role in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the country.
Dr. Brima Bobson Sesay, District Medical Officer (DMO) of Bonthe, reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems nationwide. He commended Dr. Kondor-Yormah for his leadership in bolstering healthcare delivery and assured the participants that DMOs across Sierra Leone would continue providing necessary oversight to ensure the smooth operation of NEMS.
Dr. Sesay also acknowledged that while NEMS had previously operated in isolation, the review meeting marked the beginning of a new phase of rebranding, realignment, and strengthened partnerships. He emphasized that this approach would promote more effective and collaborative healthcare service delivery.