In a significant leap forward in healthcare for the Pujehun District in Southern Sierra Leone, a specialized clinic catering to patients with chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has been inaugurated.

The PEN-Plus clinic, officially opened at the government hospital, marks a crucial milestone in addressing the rising prevalence of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic ailments in the country.

Funded through the collaborative efforts of the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and the NCDI Poverty Network, the clinic emerged as part of the PEN-Plus project. This initiative, facilitated by CUAMM (Doctors with Africa), aims to provide comprehensive care for patients suffering from various NCDs, filling a vital gap in healthcare accessibility within the district.

Operational since December, the clinic shifted to its new location in February 2023, where it has already provided care to approximately 170 patients. Among the diseases treated are hypertension, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, sickle cell anemia, asthma, chronic liver disease, and epilepsy. Patients receive essential medicines and laboratory tests free of charge, significantly easing the financial burden on families dealing with chronic illnesses.

One notable success of the clinic has been the management of insulin-dependent patients with type 1 diabetes. Previously, a lack of insulin and limited knowledge hindered proper care. Now, these patients can monitor their blood glucose levels at home, maintain detailed records, and self-administer insulin, marking a substantial improvement in their quality of life.

Giacomo Marro, a dedicated CUAMM doctor, shared the challenges faced during the clinic’s establishment, from selecting laboratory equipment to ensuring a stable power supply through solar panels and generators. He emphasized the complexities of addressing health determinants in a resource-constrained environment, highlighting the need for education even in the face of limited resources. Marro expressed his satisfaction in contributing to the project’s inception and his dedication to overcoming obstacles to provide essential healthcare services.

The opening of the PEN-Plus clinic not only represents a triumph over adversity but also stands as a beacon of hope for the community. It embodies the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals and organizations to provide accessible, high-quality care, ultimately transforming lives and fostering a healthier future for all in Pujehun District.