Sinoe County’s former Superintendent, Peter Wleh Nyensuah, has alarmed over health workers’ profound attention to cellphones, even more than to their patients’ needs.
“I am writing to you as a concerned citizen of Liberia who deeply cares about the well-being of our fellow citizens and the integrity of our healthcare system,” Nyensuah, Sinoe County’s Superintendent emeritus, said in his letter to the Health Minister, Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto.
“It has come to my attention alongside many others that the increasing use of mobile phones by nurses, laboratory technicians, and other health workers during their duty hours is having detrimental effects on patient’s care.”
In furtherance, he alleged that lapses in attention caused by distractions from mobile phones have contributed to tragic outcomes, including the deaths of patients at a number of hospitals, clinics, and health centers across the nation.
However, with the struggling state of healthcare facilities nationwide, he called on Minister Kpoto to prioritize patient’s safety and quality care. “Therefore, I strongly urge the Ministry of Health to implement strong legislation to ban the use of cellphones by all health workers, with the exception of medical doctors, during their shifts,” he said in the letter.
He noted that if the proposal is accepted it will ensure that health workers are fully attentive to their essential duties, and consequently foster an environment where patient care is a priority.
“By taking such a decisive step, we can reinforce the professionalism and responsibility expected from all members of our healthcare workforce,” Concerned citizen Nyensuah stated. “It is vital to create a culture of accountability, where our healthcare professionals are present and engaged, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for our patients.”
He therefore called for Minister Kpoto’s urgent attention to address the alarming matter. He called on her to consider the positive impact such a ban could have on the healthcare system.
In a patriotic tone, he said, “Together, we can work toward safeguarding the lives of all Liberians by enhancing the quality of care provided in our hospitals and clinics.”
He thanked the Minister for her commitment to the health and wellbeing of the nation, and said he looked forward to a prompt response on the critical issue.
