By Ishmail Saidu Kanu
The 2024 audit of the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) in Freetown has revealed that over NLe432,146 was disbursed in salaries to twenty (20) staff members who were not present for physical verification.
The audit was unable to ascertain the existence of these individuals or to verify whether the services for which they were compensated were in fact rendered, thereby raising concerns regarding compliance with applicable financial and administrative regulations.
Further, the audit identified major deficiencies in the condition of the hospital mortuary. Despite prior recommendations for immediate remedial action, the cooling system intended to preserve human remains was found to be completely non-functional.
Additional maintenance of the mortuary structure remains outstanding, potentially compromising the proper storage and management of corpses in accordance with statutory and professional standards.
The audit team conducted on-site inspections and interviews with the head of the mortuary to confirm these findings.
In light of the foregoing, the auditors have recommended that the Medical Superintendent, in concert with the Chief Medical Officer and the Senior Permanent Secretary, take immediate and enforceable measures to rectify the identified deficiencies, ensure proper verification of staff, and safeguard the delivery of healthcare services in a manner consistent with statutory obligations and public accountability requirements.
