By: Dawda M. Jallow
The Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) Tuesday joined the globe in commemoration of World Family Medicine Day.
The Family Medicine Department of EFSTH marked the day with renewed calls for compassionate and patient-centered healthcare in an increasingly digital medical environment.
The event, held at the hospital grounds under the theme “Compassionate Care in a Digital World,” brought together healthcare professionals, students, hospital administrators and partners to reflect on the evolving role of family medicine in The Gambia.
Delivering the welcoming remarks, Dr. Absa Secka, a resident doctor in family medicine, described the occasion as a celebration of a medical discipline rooted in compassion, trust and continuity of care.
“As healthcare continues to evolve through technology, telemedicine and electronic medical records, we must ensure that the heart of medicine remains human,” she said.
Dr. Secka noted that family medicine extends beyond treating diseases and focuses on understanding patients, supporting families and building long-term relationships with communities through prevention, treatment and recovery.
She also commended healthcare workers serving on the frontline, saying their efforts continue to strengthen the country’s health system and improve access to quality healthcare services.
Head of the Family Medicine Department, Dr. Ebrima Saidy Jah, highlighted the importance of family physicians in promoting accessible and community-based healthcare.
“Family physicians are not just healers, they are trusted partners in building healthier communities,” he said.
Dr. Jah stressed that while digital innovations are transforming healthcare delivery, compassion must remain central to medical practice.
He outlined benefits of digital healthcare tools, including improved diagnosis, better patient records management, remote healthcare access, reduced medical errors and enhanced communication between caregivers and patients.
Also speaking at the event, the Matron of Family Medicine, Marie Darboe Bah, commended nurses and healthcare workers for their resilience and professionalism despite challenges within the health sector.
“We have worked under pressure, adapted during difficult periods and continued to provide care with commitment and professionalism,” she said.
She called on hospital management and stakeholders to prioritize the welfare, training and motivation of nurses, describing them as a key pillar of effective healthcare delivery.
The celebration ended with calls for increased investment in primary healthcare and family medicine as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and achieve universal health coverage in The Gambia.