Monrovia – The Lutheran Church in Liberia (LCL) has intensified efforts to restore operations at Phebe Hospital and School of Nursing, following the institution’s closure on July 7 after members of the Phebe Hospital Employees Association launched a “Go Slow” action.
By Patience M. Jones
Describing Phebe Hospital as one of Liberia’s most important healthcare institutions, the Church reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the hospital resumes full operations as quickly as possible to prevent further disruption of medical services.
The Church’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over the impact of the shutdown on patients, particularly those requiring critical medical care.
To address the crisis, the Executive Council of the Lutheran Church in Liberia convened an extraordinary emergency meeting on Friday, July 10, at the Bishop’s Conference Room in Sinkor, Monrovia. During the meeting, Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Dr. D. Jensen Seyenkulo and Presiding Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. G. Victor Padmore attempted to meet with Liberia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, to discuss possible solutions to the impasse. However, according to the Church, the bishops were not granted access to the minister.
As part of measures aimed at rebuilding confidence and facilitating the reopening of the hospital, Dr. Miniie Sankawulu Ricks, Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of Phebe Hospital and School of Nursing, has agreed to proceed on a one-month leave of absence.
The Church said the temporary leave will allow for an independent review of reports submitted by the Liberia Medical and Dental Council, the Internal Audit Agency, and a Special Committee established by the Bishops’ Council regarding concerns raised at the institution.
While acknowledging that employees’ grievances deserve careful review through established procedures, the Lutheran Church expressed disappointment over the manner in which critically ill patients were transferred from Phebe Hospital to C.B. Dunbar Hospital following the shutdown.
The Church also criticized the transfer of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel from Phebe Hospital without consultation with the governing churches, describing the move as troubling.
Calling for urgent government intervention, the Lutheran Church urged the Government of Liberia to work with all stakeholders to ensure the immediate reopening of the hospital so that patients can continue receiving essential medical services.
The Church extended appreciation to Bong County Senator Prince K. Moye, Bong County Superintendent Lorleyah Norris, the Board of Trustees of Phebe Hospital and School of Nursing, and all individuals and institutions contributing to efforts aimed at resolving the crisis peacefully.
Reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, transparency, and due process, the Lutheran Church assured the public that every possible effort is being made to reopen Phebe Hospital and School of Nursing in the shortest possible time.
The Church also appealed to media institutions across Liberia to practice responsible journalism by reporting accurately, fairly, and in a balanced manner while avoiding the publication of unverified information that could erode public confidence in the hospital and the country’s healthcare system.
