Thiès, the third-largest city in Senegal, is a dynamic urban center known for its rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and economic significance. Situated just 70 km east of Dakar, it serves as a key transportation and industrial hub, connecting the capital to the country’s inland regions. With a growing population and expanding infrastructure, Thiès plays a crucial role in Senegal’s economic, educational, and healthcare sectors.Beyond its industrial strength, Thiès is home to a thriving community, with a blend of traditional values and modern development. Its strategic position has led to increased investments in public services, including healthcare, making it a focal point for medical advancements in the region.
Healthcare Infrastructure
Thiès boasts a network of healthcare facilities, including the Hôpital Régional de Thiès, which serves as a primary referral center for the region. The city also hosts several district health centers and private clinics, enhancing healthcare accessibility. Despite these facilities, challenges such as equipment shortages and infrastructure limitations persist, impacting service delivery.
Healthcare Workforce
The city faces a scarcity of healthcare professionals, reflecting a national trend. Senegal’s healthcare system is characterized by a shortage of medical personnel, particularly in rural areas. This shortage affects the quality and accessibility of healthcare services in Thiès.
Disease Burden
Thiès contends with various health challenges:
- Malaria: As in much of Senegal, malaria remains a significant concern, particularly during the rainy season.
- Tuberculosis (TB): The city reports notable TB cases, aligning with national statistics indicating approximately 9,500 cases annually.
- HIV/AIDS: Senegal maintains a relatively low HIV prevalence rate of about 0.9%, with regional variations.
- Maternal and Child Health: Despite improvements, maternal and infant mortality rates remain areas for ongoing attention.
Recent Healthcare Developments
- In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Thiès has implemented simulation exercises to enhance preparedness. For instance, a successful emergency caesarean section simulation for a COVID-19-positive patient was conducted, underscoring the city’s commitment to maintaining essential health services during health crises.
Source: afro. who.int
- Additionally, Senegal’s digital health initiatives, such as the launch of SunuCMU in June 2021, aim to streamline healthcare services nationwide, potentially benefiting Thiès by improving service delivery and health coverage
LIST OF MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS
| Sr. No | INSTITUTION | PROGRAMMES | TYPE |
| 1 | Université Iba Der Thiam de Thiès (UIDT) | · Medicine
· Masters and Doctors Programmes |
Public |
LIST OF HOSPITALS
| PUBLIC HOSPITALS | |
| Sr. No | HOSPITAL |
| 1 | Hôpital Régional de Thiès |
| 2 | Hôpital Régional El Hadji Ahmadou Sakhir Ndieguene |
| 3 | Establishment Hospital Military De Thiès |
| PRIVATE HOSPITALS | |
| Sr. No | HOSPITAL |
| 1 | Hôpital Saint Jean de Dieu |
| 2 | Hospital St. John of God |
| 3 | Hôpital Barthimée |
| 4 | Clinical Dr. Kane |
DIAGNOSTIC CENTRES
- Laboratoire BIO PLUS de Thiès
- Laboratoire d’analyses biomédicales BIO-ABASS
- Bioconsult Thies
CONCLUSION
Thiès is steadily strengthening its healthcare system, with a blend of public and private hospitals, diagnostic centers, and medical training institutions working to meet the city’s growing healthcare needs.While significant progress has been made in infrastructure expansion, digital health adoption, and disease management, challenges such as healthcare workforce shortages and service accessibility remain key areas for improvement.With continued investments, policy-driven reforms, and collaboration between the public and private sectors, Thiès has the potential to become a regional healthcare model in Senegal. We are committed to working with stakeholders to build a more efficient, accessible, and sustainable healthcare ecosystem in the city.
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