By G. Watson Richards
The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) has deployed 65 intern doctors to health facilities across the country as part of efforts to strengthen medical training and healthcare services.
The group comprises 40 male and 25 female doctors trained both locally and abroad.
According to the LMDC, 12 of the interns graduated from medical institutions in Cuba, China, The Gambia, Russia, Ukraine, Sudan, Kenya, and the Philippines, while others completed their studies at the A.M. Dogliotti College of Medicine in Liberia.
The interns have been assigned to major hospitals, including John F. Kennedy Memorial Referral Hospital, ELWA Hospital, St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital, and the 14 Military Hospital in Monrovia. Others have been posted to J.J. Dossen Hospital in Maryland County, Jackson F. Doe Memorial Regional Referral Hospital in Nimba County, United Methodist Hospital in Gompa, and Dussa Hospital in Margibi County.
During the one-year internship, the doctors will rotate through Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, and Surgery under the supervision of senior consultants, hospital authorities, and LMDC officials.
“The internship serves as a mandatory requirement prior to full licensure and independent medical practice in Liberia,” the LMDC said in a statement.
The internship is divided into three trimesters of three months each. At the end of every trimester, supervising consultants and hospital management teams will evaluate the interns’ clinical performance, professionalism, and ethical conduct.
The Council said interns found to be underperforming or involved in misconduct could face disciplinary actions, including reassignment or repetition of specific rotations.
“The Council is calling on healthcare professionals at all assigned facilities to provide mentorship and support to the interns,” the statement said.
The LMDC said the deployment is intended to improve clinical training and help strengthen the country’s healthcare system.
