The Government of Liberia trains healthcare professionals to operate and maintain medical oxygen plants constructed across the country.
By Emmanuel Wise Jipoh
Monrovia, Liberia, March 13, 2025 – The Ministry of Health, through the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Plan International, with funding from the Global Fund, has completed a two-day capacity-building training for healthcare professionals on the operation and maintenance of medical oxygen plants constructed across the country.
The training was conducted by the Build Health International (BHI) Biomedical Oxygen Team led by Andrew Johnson.
In remarks, Dr. Adophus T. Yeiah, Director of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), highlights the importance of the technical working session, saying, “Medical oxygen is not just an essential medication; it’s one of the very few essential medications that I can recall that do not have replacements, so it’s either you have oxygen, or you don’t have it.”
Director Yeiah emphasizes the key role oxygen plays in the country’s medical landscape and urges all participants to take advantage of the technical learning session.
The training was held from March 10 to 11, 2025, at the Golden Gate Hotel in Paynesville. It brought together 11 county health officers, biomedical engineers, technicians, and hospital administrators from across Liberia.
It aims to equip senior healthcare managers and policy makers with the skills needed to safely, sustainably, and cost-effectively operate Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plants within their respective facilities.
Mr. Mark Luke, Technical Assistant on Medical Oxygen, proxy on behalf of Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. Catherine T. Cooper, explains the essential role of medical oxygen in patient care, particularly in emergencies and intensive care units. He discloses that ensuring a reliable and sufficient oxygen supply remains a top priority for the healthcare system.
Participants received training in key aspects of medical oxygen management, including plant operations, troubleshooting, safety protocols, and distribution strategies.
“This training aligns with the government’s broader strategy to improve healthcare delivery and ensure hospitals and clinics have adequate oxygen supplies to meet patient needs efficiently.” Industrial experts led interactive sessions to enhance technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health (MOH) reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Liberia’s oxygen supply chain, particularly in preparation for public health emergencies. Editing by Jonathan Browne
