(Monrovia, Liberia, June 18, 2026)—The Ministry of Health has concluded a two-day review and validation meeting for the National PEN-Plus Operational Plan (NOP), geared towards expanding access to care for people living with severe non-communicable diseases across the country.

The meeting brought together health experts, development partners, and other stakeholders to assess and refine the draft operational plan that will guide the nationwide implementation of the PEN-Plus initiative.

Chaired by the Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Program, Jamesetta Smith, the meeting focused on ensuring that the operational plan aligns with Liberia’s National NCDI Policy and Strategic Plan, the World Health Organization’s PEN-Plus Framework, and broader national health priorities.

PEN-Plus is a health service model designed to improve access to treatment for severe chronic conditions, including advanced heart disease, type 1 diabetes, and sickle cell disease, particularly at secondary-level healthcare facilities in resource-limited settings.

During the discussions, participants reviewed implementation arrangements, governance structures, service delivery packages, and the proposed roadmap for scaling up PEN-Plus services throughout Liberia. Stakeholders also examined existing gaps within the draft document and proposed a series of technical and operational recommendations aimed at strengthening its effectiveness and sustainability.

The review process provided an opportunity to define priority actions, clarify responsibilities, and establish mechanisms to support efficient implementation once the plan is formally adopted.

The meeting also served as a platform for building consensus among key actors in the health sector, with participants reaffirming their commitment to improving the prevention and management of severe non-communicable diseases nationwide.