By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a momentous occasion on February 29, 2024, at the Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, commended the hospital’s leadership for its pivotal role in elevating the nation’s healthcare sector. The event marked the official commissioning of the MRI Machine and Unit, a significant milestone in advancing medical diagnostics within the country.
The Vice President emphasized the Government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage, underscoring the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. He lauded Choithram Memorial Hospital for its contributions to this goal, citing increased budget allocations, expanded healthcare practitioner networks, and reduced maternal mortality rates as tangible outcomes of concerted efforts.
The Vice President highlighted the transformative impact of the MRI Machine, facilitated by the Choithram International Foundation, on healthcare accessibility and affordability. With this state-of-the-art equipment now available locally, the burden of seeking diagnostic treatment abroad, particularly in neighboring Ghana, is substantially reduced.
Moreover, he revealed plans for discounted MRI scanning rates for vulnerable demographics, further emphasizing Choithram’s commitment to equitable healthcare provision.
Echoing Dr. Jalloh’s sentiments, Health Minister, Dr. Austin Demby, underscored the significance of advanced medical technology in delivering quality healthcare. He praised Choithram Memorial Hospital for its proactive approach in investing in cutting-edge equipment, such as the MRI Machine, which enhances diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy.
Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of Choithram Memorial Hospital, reflected on the institution’s journey from its inception to becoming a beacon of healthcare excellence in Sierra Leone. He credited the vision of the late Mr. Thakurdas Choithram Pagarani, founder of the Choithram Group of Companies, for laying the groundwork for the hospital’s success. He expressed gratitude to the Choithram International Foundation for its unwavering support in expanding the hospital’s infrastructure and services.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Deputy Ministers, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Choithram Memorial Hospital, Dr. Gordon Harris. The event culminated in the symbolic cutting of the tape by Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, marking the official launch of the MRI Machine and Unit at Choithram Memorial Hospital.
As Choithram Memorial Hospital continues its mission to provide state-of-the-art healthcare services to the people of Sierra Leone, the collective efforts of stakeholders underscore a shared commitment to advancing healthcare accessibility, affordability and quality nationwide.
