By Peter Kollie
Gbanway, Salayea District-Health authorities at the Gbanway Health Center have tressed the urgent need to relocate the facility in order to address critical challenges affecting healthcare delivery. The local health authorities have also commended the Government of Liberia for providing essential medical supplies, including drugs.
Speaking recently at the health center, Madam Esther T. Monies, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Gbanway Health Center, expressed appreciation to the Liberian Government and partners for the consistent supply of medical drugs since her appointment almost a year ago.
“Before now, it was very difficult to get drugs, but we appreciate the government for ensuring regular supplies,” Madam Monies stated. She highlighted that essential medications, including malaria treatment and painkillers, are now available, and the health team occasionally distributes mosquito nets to residents.
Seasonal Disease Patterns
Amid the availability of essential drugs, Madam Monies noted that the health center continues to face a high number of malaria cases, particularly during the rainy season, while diarrhea cases peak during the dry season. She emphasized the importance of health education, revealing that healthcare workers often advise patients on proper hygiene and environmental care. Community Health Services Supervisors (CHSS) also conduct outreach activities to provide health awareness.
Challenges at the Health Center
Despite the improvements in drug supply, Madam Monies highlighted significant challenges faced by the health center. She pointed out that the facility’s current location is problematic due to its proximity to residential homes, which compromises patient privacy.
“Sometimes, during deliveries, people in nearby houses can hear what is happening inside the health center. This is not ideal for us,” she lamented.
She further mentioned that the health center lacks adequate storage space for documents and essential materials, exacerbating operational difficulties.
Relocation Plans Underway
In response to these challenges, Madam Monies disclosed that the health team and the town’s leadership are working on plans to relocate the health center to a more suitable location.
“This relocation will ensure better safety and improved services for both the healthcare workers and the community,” she concluded.
The move is expected to address the current spatial and privacy constraints while enhancing healthcare delivery for the people of Gbanway and surrounding areas.
