About ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital
The All-Africa Leprosy, Tuberculosis, and Rehabilitation Training Centre (ALERT) has a legacy of excellence in healthcare that dates back to 1934, when it was established as a leprosarium by the Sudan Interior Mission (SIM). Initially named Princess Zenebework Memorial Hospital by Emperor Haile Selassie I, the hospital was later transformed to address the increasing burden of leprosy across Africa. On December 11, 1965, international donor agencies collaborated to establish ALERT as a dedicated center for leprosy treatment, rehabilitation, and training.
Over the years, ALERT emerged as Ethiopia’s premier referral hospital for leprosy and its complications. Recognizing its significant contributions, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated ALERT as a Collaborating Center for International Leprosy Training in 1988. The institution played a key role in pioneering field programs and contributed extensively to research, particularly in the implementation of Multidrug Therapy (MDT), a revolutionary breakthrough in leprosy management worldwide.
Situated in Kolfe Keranyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa, ALERT has remained at the forefront of leprosy care for nearly a century. In 1995, Ethiopia integrated leprosy and tuberculosis control into its primary healthcare services, expanding ALERT’s role beyond leprosy treatment. In 2002, the hospital’s administration was transferred to the Federal Ministry of Health, solidifying its position as a public healthcare leader.
Today, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital has evolved into a multidisciplinary healthcare institution, offering over 29 specialized medical services and ranking as Ethiopia’s third-largest hospital in terms of patient flow. With a dedicated team of 2000 staffs, ALERT serves over 1,500 patients daily and more than 450,000 patients annually.
Beyond its role as a healthcare provider, ALERT is a leading center for medical training, research, and innovation.
As we build on our rich history and commitment to healthcare excellence, ALERT is focused on transforming the future of specialized medical care in Ethiopia and beyond.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, commitment to patient-centered care, and groundbreaking research initiatives, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital remains a beacon of healthcare excellence, ensuring a healthier future for Ethiopia and Africa.
Welcome to ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital’s official website. As one of the leading healthcare institutions in Ethiopia, we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of patient care through our specialized services, advanced medical technology, and a highly skilled team of professionals.
Our hospital has a rich history of excellence in healthcare, serving as a beacon of hope for patients not only in Ethiopia but across the region. With a commitment to innovation and quality, we are continuously striving to enhance our services in trauma care, plastic surgery, dermatology, and pediatrics, among other specialties.
Our goal is to ensure that every patient who walks through our doors receives compassionate and comprehensive care. We are actively working to build a state-of-the-art trauma center, a leading plastic surgery and dermatology treatment center, and a specialized children’s hospital to better serve our community.
In partnership with esteemed organizations and professionals around the world, we are enhancing our capabilities to provide top-tier medical services. We are also proud to offer an environment that supports medical research and professional development for our staff.
Thank you for trusting us with your health. Together, we are transforming healthcare and making a lasting impact on the lives of our patients.
CEO of ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital
To improve the health and well-being of our community by providing integrated, patient-centered, and specialized clinical care, advancing medical education, and driving innovative clinical research to shape the future of healthcare.
To be a national and internationally recognized center of excellence in specialized clinical services, research, and medical education, setting the standard for high-quality, innovative, and compassionate healthcare.
Patient-Centered Care – We prioritize the dignity, well-being, and unique needs of every patient.
Professionalism - We uphold the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and accountability.
Ownership- We take responsibility for our roles, actions, and contributions to the hospital’s success.
Innovation -We embrace new ideas, technologies, and research to continuously advance healthcare.
Service Excellence – We are committed to delivering compassionate, efficient, and world-class care.
ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital is committed to becoming a leading medical hub in Ethiopia by establishing specialized Centers of Excellence in key medical fields. These centers focus on advanced treatment, medical training, research, and innovation to serve patients from across Ethiopia and beyond. Additionally, ALERT aims to develop a medical tourism center, attracting international patients seeking high-quality and affordable medical care in specialized fields.
A state-of-the-art trauma center designed to provide life-saving emergency care and advanced trauma treatment. Services include:
Medical Tourism Potential
With world-class trauma and surgical services, the center will serve as a regional referral hub for trauma and orthopedic patients from neighboring countries.One of the most advanced plastic surgery and dermatology centers in East Africa, offering:
Medical Tourism Potential
With highly trained specialists and state-of-the-art operating theaters, the center aims to attract international patients seeking affordable, world-class plastic and reconstructive surgeries.A dedicated pediatric hospital offering specialized medical care for children with:
• Pediatric Surgery – Complex congenital and acquired surgical treatments
• Neonatal and Pediatric ICU – Advanced critical care services for newborns and children
• Subspecialty Pediatric Care – Including neurology, cardiology, and nephrology
Medical Tourism Potential
By providing specialized pediatric care not widely available in the region, ALERT can become a preferred destination for international patients seeking expert treatment for complex childhood conditions.A leading ophthalmology center, supported by CBM, providing:
• Pediatric Eye Care – Specialized services for children with congenital and acquired eye disorders
• Cataract and Retinal Surgery – Advanced procedures for vision restoration
• Corneal Transplant and Laser Surgery – Modern treatments for complex eye conditions
Medical Tourism Potential
With a team of top specialists and cutting-edge technology, the Eye Care Center aims to attract regional and international patients seeking affordable, high-quality eye surgeries.ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital is strategically positioned to become a medical tourism hub in Africa by offering:
• World-class specialists trained in leading international institutions
• State-of-the-art medical technology and facilities
• Affordable treatment costs compared to Western and Middle Eastern countries
• Comprehensive post-surgical care and rehabilitation services
• Collaboration with international partners for continuous training and skill development
By strengthening these Centers of Excellence, ALERT aims to elevate Ethiopia’s healthcare standards while attracting patients from across Africa and beyond.
ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital is renowned for its exceptional healthcare services, rich history, and commitment to patient-centered care. Below are the key aspects that make ALERT unique and stand out in the healthcare field.
ALERT is one of Ethiopia’s oldest and most respected healthcare institutions, with a long legacy of providing high-quality medical care. Over the years, the hospital has been a leader in the medical field, particularly in specialized treatments like spine surgery, plastic surgery, and orthopedic services.
The hospital is located in a beautiful and serene compound, surrounded by lush greenery, offering a calm and healing environment for patients and visitors alike. This peaceful setting enhances the overall patient experience and contributes to the healing process.
ALERT’s ground-based inpatient wards are designed for the comfort of patients and their families. These spacious and accessible wards provide a convenient and patient-friendly environment, ensuring easy access for patients in need of extended care.
The ALERT compound is home to a variety of key institutions and services, including:
• ALERT Hospital
• AHRI (Armauer Hansen Research Institute)
• More than 200 residential houses for doctors and Ministry of Health staff
• Leprosy Associations
This diverse compound fosters collaboration and support among medical professionals, researchers, and the wider community.The Orthopedic Workshop at ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital plays a vital role in providing assistive devices for individuals with disabilities, including those affected by leprosy and other conditions. With decades of experience, the workshop specializes in the fabrication, customization, and repair of prosthetic and orthotic devices, helping patients regain mobility and independence. Located within the ALERT Hospital campus, the workshop is staffed by a team of highly skilled technicians and specialists who work closely with healthcare professionals to ensure each patient receives personalized, high-quality orthopedic solutions.
The hospital is equipped with advanced metal and engineering workshops, where skilled professionals create essential medical tools, prosthetics, and support equipment, ensuring high-quality patient care and resource availability.
ALERT is also committed to sustainable practices, operating an urban agriculture program within its compound. This initiative produces vegetables, fruits, honey, and eggs, contributing to the hospital’s self-sufficiency and providing fresh, nutritious food for patients and staff.
ALERT provides an extensive range of specialized medical services, including:
• Advanced orthopedic and spine surgery
• Plastic and reconstructive surgery
• Pediatric care and surgery
• Trauma care and critical care
• State-of-the-art diagnostic services
• Infectious disease management
• Mental health and rehabilitation services
ALERT is developing Centers of Excellence in key medical fields, such as:
• National Trauma Center
• Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Dermatology Center
• Comprehensive Children’s Hospital Center
• Eye Care Center
These centers will serve as regional hubs for specialized care, providing high-quality services for both local and international patients.The hospital has strong partnerships with international healthcare organizations like CBM (Christian Blind Mission) and WHO-recognized training programs, making it a hub for medical research and training in East Africa.
ALERT is actively working to become a leading medical tourism destination in the region. The hospital offers world-class healthcare in areas like orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, and pediatric care, attracting patients from across the globe seeking specialized care.
ALERT places a strong emphasis on patient-centered care, focusing not only on medical treatment but also on emotional and psychological support.The hospital’s holistic approach ensures that patients feel cared for, respected, and valued.
ALERT is on the cutting edge of digital health innovation, utilizing electronic health records, AI integration, and advanced diagnostic equipment to ensure efficient patient care and improved clinical outcomes.
Being directly accountable to the Federal Ministry of Health, ALERT works closely with the government to support national health reforms, enhance public health policies, and provide high-quality healthcare services across Ethiopia.
These unique features make ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital a pioneering healthcare institution, dedicated to excellence, innovation, and patient care. The hospital’s holistic approach and commitment to continuous improvement set it apart as a leader in the regional healthcare landscape.
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Explore our gallery to see our state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated team, and the heart of ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in action.
