Growth of Surgical Care in Liberia: Insights from U.S. Surgeons

Visiting U.S. surgeons report significant growth in pediatric surgery in Liberia, with 21 trained surgeons now practicing. Dr. Marc Downing noted that while surgical personnel have increased, challenges like resources and infrastructure persist. Partnerships between U.S. institutions and local hospitals aim to enhance surgical training and address pediatric surgical needs, encouraging timely treatment for children.

Visiting American surgeons have reported a notable increase in the number of practicing surgically trained professionals in Liberia, specifically in pediatric surgery. Dr. Marc Downing highlighted that while the number of surgeons has grown, substantial challenges remain regarding resources, materials, and nursing care, which are critical for effective surgical operations. As of now, the Liberia College of Physicians and Surgeons recognizes 21 pediatricians, indicating a positive trend in the country’s healthcare system.

Dr. Downing, a clinical assistant professor with over two decades of experience in surgical sciences, emphasized the importance of institutional support to the local doctors. His journey first began in 2008 when he was contacted by Dr. Emmanuel Ekyinabah for a surgical intervention for children with congenital issues. This partnership paved the way for transportation and care for children needing surgery in the U.S., funded through local resources.

Upon returning to Liberia, Dr. Downing has actively participated in building a partnership program between the surgical department at Western Michigan University and the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Liberia. This initiative aims to strengthen surgical training for local health professionals while providing exposure to surgical practices in underdeveloped regions. Their exploratory visits started in May 2019 and have continued annually, fostering practical hands-on training through collaborative surgical procedures.

During their latest trip, Dr. Downing, along with his team members, conducted around 50 surgeries in collaboration with Liberian surgeons across multiple hospitals. They were able to address complex cases that both enhanced the local surgeons’ skills and introduced advanced operative practices. The visiting residents noted the profound impact the collaborative exercise had on their surgical careers.

Dr. Williefrank Benson, one of Liberia’s first trained pediatric surgeons, expressed his commitment to enhancing child care in Liberia, a field historically underserved in the country. He emphasized the importance of providing timely surgical treatment for children rather than deferring care, dispelling myths surrounding pediatric surgery in Liberia. Their mission is to encourage parents to seek surgical help proactively rather than waiting for their kids to grow older, improving health outcomes for the younger population.

The increase in the number of pediatric surgeons in Liberia indicates a positive shift in the country’s surgical care landscape facilitated by international partnerships. Despite the progress, challenges remain regarding resources, training, and educational support. Collaborative efforts provide essential skills while enhancing local capacities in handling pediatric surgical cases. The commitment shown by both visiting and local surgeons is critical for advancing surgical care in Liberia, particularly for children in need.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com