The Ministry of Health has expressed “deep concern” over an escalating crisis at Phebe Hospital in Bong County, warning that planned strike action by health workers could severely disrupt essential medical services in central Liberia.
In a statement issued on Sunday, February 22, 2026, the Ministry acknowledged growing tensions at the faith-based referral hospital and confirmed that senior officials have been dispatched to the area to stabilize the situation and prevent service interruptions.
“The Ministry of Health expresses deep concern over the ongoing crisis and pending strike actions by health workers at Phebe Hospital in Bong County, which threaten to disrupt essential healthcare services to citizens and residents of Bong County and surrounding communities,” the statement read.
The Ministry emphasized that the management and operational oversight of Phebe Hospital rest primarily with its governing partners-the Methodist, Episcopal and Lutheran Churches-which have historically overseen the institution’s administration.
“The Ministry wishes to emphasize that the management and operation of Phebe Hospital are principally entrusted to its governing partners the Methodist, Episcopal, and Lutheran Churches, which have historically provided leadership and stewardship in the administration of the institution,” the release stated.
It called on the churches, along with the hospital’s Board of Directors, to urgently intervene and collaborate with stakeholders to prevent any disruption to patient care.
“In this regard, the Ministry respectfully calls upon these churches, together with the Hospital’s Board of Directors, to urgently intervene and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to amicably resolve the matter and prevent any disruption of normal health services,” the statement added.
According to the Ministry, a high-level team has already been deployed to assess conditions on the ground and provide immediate support.
“Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has dispatched a team of senior officials to assess the situation and provide immediate and short-term interventions to ensure continuity of services, while simultaneously engaging the governing partners and Board of Directors toward a sustainable resolution,” the release said.
The Ministry also appealed directly to the health workers planning the strike, urging them to prioritize patient welfare while negotiations continue.
“The Ministry also respectfully appeals to the dedicated health workers of Phebe Hospital to consider the lives and wellbeing of patients who depend on their care,” the statement noted. “While grievances are acknowledged and must be addressed through constructive engagement, the Ministry urges that essential services continue uninterrupted, especially for vulnerable patients requiring urgent and life-saving care. The health and safety of the public must remain paramount.”
Commitment to Health Sector Investment
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the health sector, the Ministry pointed to ongoing subsidies and investments provided to Phebe Hospital.
“The Government of Liberia remains fully committed to supporting healthcare delivery for all citizens and residents. This commitment is demonstrated through sustained investments in the health sector, including significant and ongoing government subsidies provided to Phebe Hospital to support its operations and service delivery,” the release stated.
The Ministry concluded by reiterating its readiness to facilitate dialogue and ensure uninterrupted access to quality healthcare services.
“The Ministry of Health reaffirms its readiness to support constructive engagement efforts aimed at resolving the situation promptly and ensuring that quality healthcare services continue without interruption.”
