HEALTHCARE

The Gambia National Health Policy Document

Healthcare in the Gambia

The healthcare system in The Gambia operates across three levels: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary. The government oversees four referral hospitals, along with eight main health centers, 16 smaller centers, and over 200 mobile clinic units. Additionally, the Medical Research Council, funded by the UK Government, contributes to healthcare research. Private clinics and health-focused NGOs also play a role in the Gambian healthcare landscape.

Primary Health Care:

Primary healthcare is primarily targeted at villages with a population of over 400 individuals. Village Health Workers and Traditional Midwives are trained and assigned to provide healthcare services within their assigned villages. Their responsibilities include outpatient care, community health education, ensuring the availability of essential medicines, and conducting home visits. Traditional Midwives also assist in home births and refer high-risk cases to local health centers.

Secondary Health Care:

Secondary healthcare services are provided by both large and small health centers. The government and private sectors operate approximately seven main health centers and twelve smaller centers, offering both inpatient and outpatient treatment. These facilities have resident nurses, doctors, and other supporting staff members.

Tertiary Health Care:

Tertiary healthcare services are delivered by four main referral hospitals, including the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital located in the capital on Independence Drive. The other referral hospitals are situated in Bansang, Farafenni, and Bwiam. In addition to the referral hospitals, tertiary healthcare is also available through the Medical Research Council (MRC) and several privately-run and NGO-operated clinics. These facilities offer specialized and advanced medical services to cater to complex health conditions.