In response to Sierra Leone’s severe shortage of anesthesia providers, Mercy Ships, the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health, and the University of Sierra Leone have launched a Nurse Anesthesia Diploma Programme. The initiative, which began in April 2024, aims to improve surgical care by training specialized nurse anesthetists.
Currently, Sierra Leone has just 0.1 anesthesiologists per 100,000 people, far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation. With 90% of surgeries conducted without a trained anesthetist, this program is seen as crucial for addressing the country’s healthcare challenges.
The first cohort includes 20 experienced nurses receiving both practical and theoretical training, initially aboard the Global Mercy ship and later at the School of Nursing in Freetown. Mercy Ships will provide support and mentorship for three years to ensure sustainability, and the Ministry of Health has pledged to employ graduates, particularly in underserved areas.
This program aims to significantly bolster Sierra Leone’s surgical workforce, addressing critical gaps in healthcare.