Authors: Ministry of Health Sierra Leone, Financing Alliance for Health
How can Sierra Leone reduce high out-of-pocket health costs and ensure that all citizens can access essential care without financial hardship? What innovative financing mechanisms are needed to deliver on the country’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage? And how can coordination between government stakeholders and partners drive lasting impact?
This policy brief, developed by Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health and Sanitation in collaboration with the Financing Alliance for Health, outlines critical steps to enhance Primary Health Care (PHC) through increased domestic investment and financial reform. Drawing from National Health Accounts data and aligned with the National Health Sector Strategic Plan (2021–2025), it highlights urgent priorities—ranging from scaling the National Social Health Insurance scheme (SLeSHI) to introducing Direct Facility Financing and Performance-Based Financing.
With household out-of-pocket spending accounting for over 50% of current health expenditures, the brief provides timely recommendations to reorient the system toward equitable, affordable, and resilient PHC. As Sierra Leone accelerates progress toward Vision 2030, this brief supports national and partner-led efforts to build a stronger health system—grounded in financial sustainability and universal access.
Download Resource
Resource Topic: Community Health Financing
Year: 2025
Region: Africa
Country: Sierra Leone
Publisher May Restrict Access: No