In recognition of International Women’s Day, Mercy Ships celebrates the contributions of women like Matron Betsy Deen, a trailblazing surgical leader at Connaught Hospital in Freetown. With over three decades of experience in surgical care, Matron Deen is not only transforming surgical practices but also shaping the future of healthcare in Sierra Leone.
As Surgical Matron at Connaught Hospital, Sierra Leone’s largest government hospital, Deen plays a crucial role in leading surgical teams and elevating healthcare standards through training and collaboration. Her dedication to mentorship and education is strengthening the country’s healthcare system from within.
Matron Deen’s leadership journey was further enhanced through her participation in Mercy Ships’ Education, Training, and Advocacy (ETA) programs during the organization’s 2023-2024 field service in Freetown. Aboard the Global Mercy™, Deen gained valuable insights into surgical services, hospital administration, and patient care processes, shadowing Mercy Ships nurses and hospital staff.
“The ETA program broadened my knowledge in areas like team building, patient safety, and operating theatre administration,” Deen shared. “I gained valuable experience with international standards and learned how to improve our surgical processes.”
Inspired by her experience with Mercy Ships, Deen has implemented key improvements at Connaught Hospital, including enhanced surgical scheduling, better anticipation of cancellations, and addressing special needs. She has also encouraged her team members to participate in Mercy Ships training programs, ensuring the dissemination of knowledge and skills to improve patient care.
“The training that nurses are receiving from Mercy Ships is invaluable,” Deen explained. “They gain exposure to international standards and learn from different hospital systems. This knowledge translates into better patient care and strengthens our surgical capacity.”
Deen emphasized the importance of the partnership between Mercy Ships and the Ministry of Health in providing free surgeries and training healthcare professionals. “This collaboration is crucial for building a sustainable surgical system in Sierra Leone,” she stated.
By investing in the training and leadership of women like Matron Deen, Mercy Ships is ensuring that surgical care in Sierra Leone is not only accessible today but also sustainable for future generations.
“Training like this indirectly saves thousands of lives,” Deen remarked. “By focusing on skill acquisition and capacity building, we are creating a stronger healthcare system for the people of Sierra Leone.”
As Mercy Ships continues its mission in Sierra Leone and Madagascar, it remains dedicated to empowering women in healthcare, recognizing their vital role in transforming lives and building healthier communities.
ABJ/APA