Published: January 29, 2025
CAPITOL HILL – The House of Representatives has summoned Health Minister Dr. Louise M. Kpoto and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Catherine Thomas Cooper to address pressing concerns in the public health sector. The officials are scheduled to appear on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, following a complaint raised by Grand Bassa County District #1 Representative Isaac G. Bannie.
In his communication to the plenary, Rep. Bannie highlighted troubling issues within public hospitals, including reports of additional charges imposed on patients despite the 2024 National Budget allocating funds to support these facilities.
“Our people are faced with a situation where authorities of various public hospitals are demanding referred cases to buy fuel and pay for operation fees before they can be attended to,” Rep. Bannie stated, describing the practice as unacceptable and a violation of citizens’ right to essential healthcare services.
He also raised concerns about the assignment of specialized medical doctors to administrative roles, leaving critical gaps in specialized care. Examples cited included practices in Montserrado, Nimba, and Grand Cape Mount counties, along with the current EPI Director at the Ministry of Health.
“What happens when there are complex emergency cases that require the expertise of those specialized medical doctors?” he questioned, stressing the adverse effects of such assignments on the overall health system.
Rep. Bannie called on his colleagues to prioritize the matter, noting that public health is integral to national development. He emphasized the need for transparency and efficiency in utilizing public funds allocated for healthcare services.
“This Honorable Body must ensure that public health facilities deliver the required services without placing undue burdens on citizens,” he asserted.
In response, the House plenary granted Rep. Bannie’s request, directing Dr. Kpoto and Dr. Cooper to explain the reported hospital practices and the reassignment of specialists to non-clinical roles. Lawmakers are optimistic that the session will shed light on these concerns and lead to corrective measures.
This development comes amidst widespread complaints about challenges in the health sector, including inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and a shortage of personnel. Patients, particularly in rural areas, continue to bear the brunt of systemic inefficiencies, sparking growing calls for reform.
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