Dr. Mohamad Hashem is Bringing Expert Pediatric Care to Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone faces a severe pediatrician shortage, leaving thousands of children without access to specialized healthcare. Currently, the country has only 10 pediatric doctors, a critical gap in the already-strained healthcare system. 

Malaria (33%), pneumonia (20%), and diarrhea (14%) remain the leading causes of death for children aged 1 to 5 years in Sierra Leone. With an infant mortality rate of 66.7 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2025, the demand for qualified pediatric specialists has never been more urgent. 

Dr. Mohamad Hashem, a seasoned pediatrician with over 30 years of experience in Lebanon and Germany, is stepping in to help address this critical gap. He is a member of the Lebanese Order of Physicians and the Lebanese Pediatric Society and served as the Head of the Southern Lebanon Pediatric Society. 

Now settling in Sierra Leone, Dr. Hashem brings expertise in childhood diseases, allergies, and general pediatric care, providing a much-needed lifeline to parents seeking specialized medical attention for their children. 

His arrival is a welcomed step towards improving child health outcomes in Sierra Leone, where access to pediatric care is scarce. 

Why Sierra Leone needs more pediatricians like Dr. Hashem

For Dr. Hashem, relocating to Sierra Leone is a professional commitment and a personal choice. Having visited the country five times before, he has long admired its beauty and the warmth of its people. 

But beyond admiration, Sierra Leone holds deep significance as his family ties make it a natural place for him to settle down and serve. 

His connection to the country isn’t new. Years ago, he worked as a tropical disease doctor in Sierra Leone, gaining firsthand experience in the local healthcare landscape.  

“Being close to my family and siblings was important to me, and at the same time, I saw that I could help Sierra Leonean children get the best pediatric care,” he shared.

Dr. Hashem’s medical career spans decades and multiple countries. Originally from Lebanon, he pursued his medical education in Russia, earning a diploma in general medicine after seven years of study. He then returned to Lebanon to practice as a general physician for a year before traveling to Sierra Leone to work in tropical medicine.  

“After my experience in Sierra Leone, I went to Germany and worked in oncology for two years,” Dr. Hashem stated. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Hashem has worked in various fields of medicine, including general practice, oncology, and pediatrics. 

His career has taken him across fields—general practice, oncology, and pediatrics—but his passion for treating children led him to specialize in pediatrics.

“I gained knowledge in treating allergies, asthma, skin-related allergic diseases, childhood cancer, and kidney diseases.”

With over 25 years of experience working in general medicine, Dr. Hashem has handled numerous emergency cases, including with older patients. His extensive background gives him a well-rounded approach to treatment, ensuring he can provide expert care to individuals of all ages, not just children. 

Dr. Mohamad Hashem’s Approach to Pediatric Care

For Dr. Hashem, medicine is more than just a profession; it is a calling. He believes doctors should serve humanity without discrimination, prioritizing patient well-being over financial goals. 

“I believe medicine is not a business but rather a mission. As doctors, we have a duty to everyone, regardless of nationality, color, or language. When money becomes the main focus, the quality of care can suffer.”

At his clinic, Dr. Hashem takes a thorough and patient-centered approach to pediatric care. Every child undergoes a thorough examination upon arrival, ensuring that no aspect of their health is overlooked.  

His check-ups go beyond routine assessments. He evaluates vital signs, tracks growth, checks ear and oral health, examines the nervous system, and assesses internal organs like the stomach and kidneys. 

He prioritizes time with each patient, taking the necessary steps to fully understand their medical concerns and provide the most effective treatment. 

Beyond treating illnesses, Dr. Hashem is a strong advocate for preventive healthcare. He says vaccinations play a key role in protecting children against serious diseases.

“The key to good health is prevention at home. Keeping a clean environment, eating a balanced diet, and taking precautions during disease outbreaks are all crucial. These small actions can make a big difference in protecting your health,” he advised.  

Dr. Mohamad Hashem: A Vital Addition to Sierra Leone’s Pediatric Care

Dr. Hashem’s presence in Sierra Leone marks a significant step toward addressing the country’s pediatric healthcare challenges. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to child health, he will fill a critical gap.

As Sierra Leone works to strengthen its pediatric healthcare system, professionals like Dr. Hashem play a key role in ensuring children receive the quality medical care they deserve. 

Where to Find Dr. Mohamad Hashem’s Children’s Clinic

Parents seeking specialized pediatric care can visit Dr. Hashem’s clinic at 190G Wilkinson Road, 200 meters from Lumley Round. For added convenience, he also offers house visits for patients who require care at home. 

Dr. Hashem offers consultations and treatments for various pediatric conditions, including vaccinations, allergy management, and general check-ups. He also does house calls.

To get general or urgent care, call Dr. Hashem at +232 90555444.