Liberia expands chronic disease care with PEN-Plus launch in two counties

LIBERIA—The Government of Liberia has launched the PEN-Plus scale-up program in Bong and Lofa Counties, marking a significant advancement in specialized healthcare for remote communities.

The Ministry of Health partnered with the Clinton Health Access Initiative and the World Health Organization to implement the initiative, which decentralizes the management of severe chronic illnesses.

Senior government officials, development partners, health workers, and local leaders gathered at launch events in both counties.

They characterized the program as a crucial intervention that will improve lives for people suffering from severe non-communicable diseases.

The PEN-Plus strategy strengthens local hospitals to diagnose and manage complex illnesses requiring continuous care.

These conditions include type one diabetes, sickle cell disease, advanced heart disease, and other chronic ailments that previously required treatment only at national referral facilities.

Jamesetta Smith, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries Unit at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the growing threat these diseases pose.

 She noted that more than forty million people die annually from such conditions worldwide, with most deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries.

Between 2019 and 2023, Liberia recorded over forty-nine thousand cases and more than five thousand related deaths, though actual figures likely exceed these numbers since many deaths occur outside health facilities.

Smith identified unhealthy dietary habits, low physical activity, increasing alcohol consumption, and unmanaged stress as key risk factors driving the rising burden.

The PEN-Plus model equips mid-level health workers with skills to manage chronic and severe conditions in rural and peripheral urban settings while working alongside medical specialists.

Bong County Superintendent Lorleyah Norris praised the program as a critical investment in residents’ health and future.

She emphasized that families have struggled to access diagnosis and long-term care, and the initiative brings hope closer to home.

Lofa County Superintendent J Lavelah Massaquoi welcomed the introduction of PEN-Plus services at Tellewoyan Memorial Hospital, which will provide relief to families who previously traveled long distances for specialized care.

He stressed that the county administration will promote awareness and encourage residents to seek testing for early detection.

CHAI Country Director Moses Massaquoi described the launch as a major milestone grounded in equity, innovation, and resilience.

He recalled CHAI’s partnership with Liberia dating back to 2006 and detailed preparations at C B Dunbar Hospital, including facility assessments, staff training, and improved supply chain readiness.

Assistant Minister for Prevention Services Dr Caullau Jabbeh Howe formally launched the program and announced plans for an HPV vaccination campaign next week to protect children aged nine to eighteen from cervical cancer.