The narrative around healthcare in Sierra Leone is shifting. While the system still faces significant challenges, 2026 marks a turning point with the launch of the Maternal Center of Excellence (MCOE) in Kono and the installation of 24-hour solar power systems at the national referral hospital, Connaught.
However, for the business traveler, expat, or visiting consultant, the gap between a private clinic and a public ward remains vast. In Freetown, knowing the difference between Choithram Memorial and a local government clinic can mean the difference between a private AC room with a ventilator and a crowded ward with limited supplies.
This guide is your roadmap. We will navigate the Private vs. Public divide, reveal the best Hospitals in Sierra Leone for international-standard care, and provide the essential contact numbers you need for medical evacuation.
The Landscape: NGO Excellence vs. Public Strain
To navigate healthcare here, you must understand the three distinct tiers of the system.
1. The “Expat” Private Sector
- The Hubs: Choithram Memorial Hospital and AMI Sierra Leone.
- The Reality: These facilities are where most international organizations, embassies, and wealthy locals go. They offer diagnostics (CT/MRI), private rooms, and pharmacy services that mirror Western standards.
- Cost: High. Expect to pay cash or have comprehensive insurance.
2. The NGO Sector (Specialized High-Quality)
- The Hub: Emergency Surgical Centre (Goderich).
- The Reality: Run by the Italian NGO EMERGENCY, this is arguably the cleanest and most efficient surgical facility in the country. It focuses strictly on trauma and surgery.
- Cost: Free (funded by donations), but admission criteria are strict (surgical cases only).
3. The Public System (Government)
- The Hub: Connaught Hospital (Freetown).
- The Reality: This is the national referral center. While recent upgrades (solar power, renovated mortuary) have improved stability, it remains overcrowded.
- Best For: It serves as a catch-all for major incidents, but expats usually prefer stabilizing here and transferring to a private facility or evacuating.
Top Hospitals in Sierra Leone: A Deep Dive
We have analyzed the facilities to bring you the most reliable options in 2026.
1. Choithram Memorial Hospital – Freetown (Hill Station)
The gold standard for comprehensive private care.
- Best For: General Medicine, Diagnostics (MRI/CT), and 24/7 Pharmacy.
- Why it stands out: Sitting atop Hill Station, it is the go-to for the international community. It functions as a multispecialty hospital with Indian and expatriate doctors. If you need a reliable diagnosis for a fever or a complex condition, start here.
- Contact: +232 76 980 000
2. AMI Sierra Leone – Freetown (Aberdeen/Brookfields)
The boutique clinic for corporate and diplomatic clients.
- Best For: Primary Care, Stabilization, and Air Ambulance Coordination.
- Why it stands out: AMI operates a clinic that feels like a Western GP office. They are specialists in aviation medicine and are the primary contact if you think you might need to be flown out of the country.
- Contact: +232 99 500 800
3. Emergency Surgical Centre – Goderich
A beacon of surgical excellence.
- Best For: Major Trauma, Gunshot Wounds, and Pediatric Surgery.
- Why it stands out: If you are in a severe car accident, this is the best place for surgery. The hygiene standards here are impeccable, often exceeding those of private for-profit hospitals.
- Note: They do not treat general illnesses like Malaria or Typhoid—only surgical cases.
4. Connaught Hospital – Freetown (Central)
The historic national giant.
- Best For: Infectious Disease Isolation and Mass Casualty incidents.
- Why it stands out: It is the backbone of the healthcare system. While resources can be scarce, the senior-most Sierra Leonean specialists (Professors) often work here. The new solar grid installed in 2025 ensures lights stay on during city blackouts.
📊 Comparison: Top Medical Facilities in Freetown
Use this table to find the right facility for your needs.
| Facility Name | Location | Type | Key Strength | Best For |
| Choithram Memorial | Hill Station | Private | Diagnostics | Expats, MRI, General Care |
| Emergency (NGO) | Goderich | NGO | Trauma Surgery | Car Accidents, Surgery |
| AMI Sierra Leone | Brookfields | Private | Medevac/GP | Checkups, Evacuation |
| Connaught Hospital | Central | Public | Referral Hub | Infectious Diseases |
| Ola During Children’s | East End | Public | Pediatrics | Severe Child Illness |
| Shuman Hospital | Pultney St. | Private | Access | 24/7 Urgent Care |
| CitiGlobe Pharmacy | Campbell St. | Pharmacy | Reliability | Genuine Medications |
| Blue Shield Hospital | Freetown | Private | General | Alternative Private Option |
💡 Real Success Story: The Malaria Protocol
In Sierra Leone, speed saves lives.
Case Study: The “24-Hour” Fever
The Challenge: Mark, a consultant from the UK, woke up with shivering and a headache. He assumed it was just fatigue from the flight.
The Solution: His local colleague insisted he go to AMI Sierra Leone immediately.
The Protocol: The clinic performed a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) within 15 minutes. It was positive for Falciparum Malaria.
The Outcome: Mark was given high-quality artemisinin-based therapy on the spot. He recovered in 2 days.
The Lesson: “I would have slept it off and ended up in the ICU. The speed of the private clinic’s testing was incredible.”
👉 Worried about Malaria? Don’t wait. If you have a fever, assume it is Malaria until tested.
Essential Tips for Patients & Expats
1. Medical Evacuation (Medevac) is Crucial
If you suffer a stroke, heart attack, or complex spinal injury, local capabilities are limited. You will likely need evacuation to Accra (Ghana), Europe, or South Africa.
- Provider: West African Rescue Association (WARA) and AMI are the leaders here.
- Action: Ensure your insurance covers “Air Ambulance” with a limit of at least $100,000.
2. “Cash is King” (Leones or USD)
- Private Clinics: While some accept cards, networks frequently fail. Always carry a significant amount of cash (New Leones or USD) for deposits.
- Policy: Many private hospitals require a deposit before admission.
3. Reliable Pharmacies
Counterfeit drugs are a risk in West Africa. Stick to trusted names:
- CitiGlobe Pharmacy: Known for importing genuine UK/EU standard drugs.
- Choithram Pharmacy: Located inside the hospital, open 24/7.
4. Emergency Numbers
- 117: The national public ambulance line (can be slow/unreliable).
- Private Ambulance: It is better to call Choithram (+232 76 980 000) or use a taxi to get to the hospital if you are stable enough to move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is healthcare free in Sierra Leone?
For pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under 5, public healthcare is technically free (Free Health Care Initiative). For everyone else, including tourists, you must pay.
2. What is the best hospital for expats?
Choithram Memorial Hospital and AMI Sierra Leone are the most trusted for comfort, English-speaking staff, and hygiene.
3. Do I need a Yellow Fever card?
Yes. It is mandatory for entry. You will be checked at Lungi International Airport.
4. Is the water safe to drink?
No. Never drink tap water. Stick to sealed bottled water (Grafton or other major brands) to avoid Typhoid and Cholera.
5. Are there dentists in Freetown?
Yes. Choithram Hospital has a modern dental wing. There are also smaller private clinics like Dental Clinic Freetown SL/L that handle fillings and extractions.
6. What are the major health risks?
Malaria is the #1 risk. Lassa Fever is endemic in the interior (Eastern provinces) but rare in Freetown. Typhoid is common—watch what you eat.
7. Can I buy antibiotics over the counter?
Often yes, but it is highly recommended to see a doctor first to ensure you are treating the right infection.
8. Is there a hyperbaric chamber for divers?
No. Diving accidents requiring recompression would require evacuation.
9. How do I get to the hospital in an emergency?
Do not wait for a public ambulance. Use a private vehicle or taxi to reach Choithram or Emergency Goderich immediately.
10. Where can I find a specialist?
Most specialists are based in Freetown. For specific needs (like cardiology), Choithram usually hosts visiting consultants or resident specialists.
Conclusion: Preparedness is Your Best Prescription
Sierra Leone is a country of incredible resilience and beauty, but its healthcare system demands respect and preparation. Whether you rely on the surgical expertise at Emergency Goderich or the diagnostic tech at Choithram, knowing your options before you get sick is the key to a safe trip.
Pack your malaria meds, keep your insurance active, and carry the right numbers.
Stay connected with local advice.
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👉 Explore Hospital Reviews: https://www.myhospitalnow.com/blog/category/hospitals-in-sierra-leone