The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has officially initiated a National Health Census in River Gee County, aiming to conduct a thorough evaluation of healthcare workers, which includes employees, volunteers, and staff from both public and private health sectors.
Team leader Wilmont B. Beyam, accompanied by three additional team members, said the census will take place for ten days, started June 19 and wrapping up on June 29.
Beyam stated that the process is dedicated to meticulously documenting all healthcare workers operating within the county, regardless of whether they are affiliated with public or private organizations.
He highlighted that the census will cover a diverse group of healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, midwives, laboratory technicians, support staff, and volunteers.
He stressed the importance of capturing information on everyone involved in delivering essential healthcare services.
To ensure the reliability of the data collected, participants will be subjected to in-person interviews and a photo verification process.
Additionally, all personnel taking part in the census must provide valid identification or professional licenses.
Mr. Beyam noted, “Health workers currently living outside the county should return to participate in the census; the only exceptions will be made for those on study leave with a valid Memorandum of Understanding.”
This effort is part of a larger national initiative aimed at improving accountability and enhancing workforce planning within Liberia’s health system.
Through documenting the health workforce, the Ministry of Health intends to boost service delivery and optimize resource distribution throughout the nation.
The successful implementation of the census is vital for fortifying Liberia’s healthcare framework and making sure that the population’s needs are adequately met by an organized health workforce.
However, several healthcare volunteers in the county described the process as ineffective, expressing concerns that it may not lead to the inclusion of many health volunteers on the government payroll.
A Community Health Service Supervisor (CHSS) in River Gee, who wished to remain anonymous, shared that they have been providing their services for about six months without receiving payment as agreed upon in the contract.
