Psychiatry

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT

MISSION

To provide healthcare services that meet the highest international clinical and ethical standards, promote and undertake research into health issues, and serve as an institution for both undergraduate and postgraduate training in medical and allied health professions

VISION

To be a leading healthcare institution in Sierra Leone and the West African region, known for its excellence in patient care, medical education, and research.

CORE VALUE

Healthcare Services: Delivering high-quality healthcare services to the population, ensuring accessibility and affordability.
Research: Conducting innovative research to address prevalent health issues and improve medical practices.
Education and Training: Offering comprehensive training programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students in medicine and allied health fields, fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals.

History of the Department of Psychiatry

The Department of Psychiatry, established as part of the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex, has become a cornerstone in mental health care and education in Sierra Leone. Under the leadership of Dr. George Okechukwu Eze, the department has grown into a multidisciplinary hub, integrating clinical services, education, and research to improve mental health outcomes across the region.

Originally structured to address the growing need for specialized mental health services, the department has expanded its scope to include extensive training programs for undergraduates, postgraduates, and allied health professionals. Its vision aligns with international best practices, fostering a patient-centered approach to care and mental health advocacy.

Over the years, the department has achieved significant milestones, such as gaining full accreditation from the West African College of Physicians for residency training, training skilled EEG technicians, and conducting groundbreaking research in mental health. Supported by partnerships, notably with Partners in Health, the department has also spearheaded infrastructural rehabilitation and expanded its services to include child and adolescent mental health, occupational therapy, and psychosocial support.

Despite challenges such as resource constraints, manpower inadequacy, and environmental issues, the Department of Psychiatry remains dedicated to its mission of providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care while advancing academic excellence.

Departmental Achievements:

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. George Okechukwu Eze, the Department of Psychiatry has made significant strides in advancing mental health services, education, and research. The department, supported by a dynamic team of professionals and robust partnerships, has achieved the following milestones:

  1. Full Accreditation for Residency Training

    • Successfully achieved a five-year full accreditation from the West African College of Physicians for residency training, ensuring high-quality education and professional development for trainees.

  2. Excellence in Training and Certification

    • Seven candidates have successfully passed the Primary Examination of the West African College of Physicians, demonstrating the department’s commitment to academic excellence.

  3. Collaborative Partnerships

    • Established robust collaboration with Partners in Health to enhance the residency training program, providing critical support and resources to trainees and staff.

  4. Capacity Building through Specialized Training

    • Successfully trained two EEG technical staff, who are now integral to the department’s operations, enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.

  5. Innovative Research Initiatives

    • Engaged in multiple ongoing research projects, contributing to the advancement of psychiatric knowledge and evidence-based practice.

  6. Infrastructure Development

    • Significant rehabilitation of hospital facilities in collaboration with Partners in Health, improving the environment for patient care and staff operations.

  7. Operational Excellence and Unit Establishment

    • Successfully established and staffed various units within the department, ensuring comprehensive and specialized care across different aspects of mental health services.

Impactful Monthly Activities

  • Regular general staff and management meetings.
  • Monthly Child and Adolescent Mental Health outreach programs to extend services to vulnerable populations.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARD HEALTH CARE

The Department of Psychiatry continues to thrive, overcoming challenges such as manpower inadequacy, limited resources, and environmental constraints. The team remains dedicated to enhancing mental health services, training future psychiatrists, and fostering an inclusive environment for patients and professionals alike.

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Challenges Faced by the Department of Psychiatry:

  1. Manpower Inadequacy
    There is a shortage of skilled professionals to adequately manage the workload and demands of the department.

  2. Inadequate Drug Supply
    The department struggles with insufficient access to necessary medications for effective patient care.

  3. Inadequate Logistics (e.g., Transport)
    Limited logistical resources, including transportation, hinder the smooth operation of the department’s services.

  4. Inadequate Allocation of Funds for Sundry Services
    The department faces financial constraints, affecting its ability to carry out essential services.

  5. Poor Environmental Control
    Issues such as illicit drug racketeering in the hospital community compromise the environment’s safety and quality.

  6. Environmental Noise Pollution
    Noise within and around the hospital creates a disruptive atmosphere for both patients and staff.