Health Care Law at Sierra Leone
Healthcare in Sierra Leone ... Sierra Leone has undertaken significant reforms in its healthcare legislation to address public health challenges and improve the well-being of its citizens. Here's an overview of the current healthcare laws and initiatives: (Sierra Leone Launches National Public Health Agency to Strengthen Healthcare Infrastructure | WHO | Regional Office for Africa)
šļø Key Healthcare Legislation
1. Public Health Act, 2022 (Act No. 17 of 2023)
Enacted in March 2023, this Act repeals the outdated 1960 Public Health Ordinance. It aims to: (The Public Health Act, no. 17 of 2023. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform, Parliament repeal and replace 1960 Public Health Act with 2022 Act - Awoko Newspaper)
Promote, protect, and improve public health and well-being.
Prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases.
Enhance local government and community participation in public health.
Provide for early detection and prompt response to health threats. (The Public Health Act, no. 17 of 2023. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform)
The Act comprises 111 sections and is divided into ten parts, covering aspects such as disease control, sanitation, and public health emergencies. (The Public Health Act, no. 17 of 2023. | UNEP Law and Environment Assistance Platform)
š„ Institutional Developments
National Public Health Agency (NPHA)
Launched in December 2023, the NPHA consolidates efforts to address health challenges and strengthen the nation's public health infrastructure. It focuses on prevention, preparedness, and effective response to health emergencies. The establishment of the NPHA signifies a commitment to building a resilient public health system capable of addressing existing health challenges. (Sierra Leone Launches National Public Health Agency to Strengthen Healthcare Infrastructure | WHO | Regional Office for Africa, Sierra Leone Launches a National Public Health Agency and Emergency Trust Fund to Strengthen Public Health Date: December 15, 2023 ā DHSE)
āļø Recent Legal Reforms
Mental Health Bill
In 2023, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation proposed a new Mental Health Bill to replace the outdated Lunacy Act of 1902. The bill aims to modernize mental health care, ensuring better access to services and protection of patients' rights. The draft bill is currently under review before presentation to Parliament. (Sierra Leone's Ministry of Health And Sanitation Proposes Modern Mental Health Bill)
š§ Public Health Challenges
Sierra Leone faces several public health challenges, including:
Infectious Diseases: The country has experienced outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, Ebola, and COVID-19, highlighting the need for robust public health systems. (Sierra Leoneās President Julius Maada Bio Launches National Public Health Agency, Says It Will Contribute to Regional and Global Efforts at Combating Emerging Health Challenges ā Sierra Leone State House Sierra Leone)
Mental Health: The outdated Lunacy Act has hindered the development of modern mental health services, prompting the proposed Mental Health Bill. (Sierra Leone's Ministry of Health And Sanitation Proposes Modern Mental Health Bill)
Substance Abuse: The emergence of synthetic drug abuse, particularly among youth, has led to public health concerns. The government has declared the drug "kush" an epidemic and is working on prevention and treatment strategies. (A synthetic drug ravages youth in Sierra Leone. There's little help, and some people are chained)
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