Regional Health Directorate, Upper River Region

1. General Information

Office Address: Basse Mansajang Kunda

Email Address: mohrhdurr@gmail.com

Head: Mr. Dodou Sanyang

2. Organizational Structure

Overview: The Upper River Region (URR) is the 7th health region, located in the eastern part of The Gambia. The Regional Health Directorate is headed by a Regional Director who oversees all health activities in the region.

The Director is assisted by two Principals:

Principal Nursing Officer: Supervises the Senior Community Health Nurse (CHN) Tutor, Regional Laboratory Technologist (RLTCO), Regional Physiotherapist (RPT), Regional Data Manager (RDM), Health Management Information System/Logistics Management Information System (HMIS/LMIS) officer, and Regional Logistics Supervisor (RLS).

Principal Public Health Officer: Supervises the Expanded Program on Immunization Regional Operations Officer (EPI-ROO), Regional Vaccine Cold Chain Officer (RVCO), and Regional Health Promotion and Education Officer (RHPEO).

Both Principals coordinate the activities of healthcare workers in hospitals and communities. The Senior Regional Administrator is responsible for the daily operations of all healthcare facilities, working closely with the Regional Area Account under the Regional Director’s supervision. Two National Nutritional Agency’s Field Officers oversee nutritional activities. The directorate also has 14 support staff and 4 drivers.

3. Key Functions and Responsibilities

Implement Ministry of Health policies, programs, and activities.

Supervise healthcare workers and facilities within the region (both public and private).

Mentor, coach, and train healthcare workers.

Manage deployment and discipline of all health staff within the region.

Represent the Ministry of Health in regional activities, including at the Regional Technical Advisory Committee.

4. Services Provided

Community Outreach Services (e.g., Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health – RMNACH), Immunization Services, Laboratory Services.

Sample Referral Network, Community Nutritional Screening.

5. Programs and Projects

Ongoing Programs:

National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)

Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI)

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

   1. Why are there frequent vaccination campaigns?

     To ensure adequate immunization coverage and prevent outbreaks.

2. Why is there often a shortage of drugs in public facilities?

     Shortages may result from supply chain delays, increased demand, or funding issues.

3. Why are there long queues at hospital outpatient departments (e.g., Basse)?

     High patient volume and limited staff contribute to delays.

4. Why is blood no longer stored in the lab?

     Due to equipment constraints, storage and supply may now be centralized or relocated.

5. Why is obtaining a new birth certificate becoming a challenge?

     Delays may be due to system changes, resource constraints, or verification issues.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Medical Research Council

TOSTAN

Gambia Red Cross/Crescent Society.