Black Lion Specialized Hospital

Established in 1964, Black Lion Specialized Hospital, also known as Tikur Anbessa Hospital,
stands as Ethiopia’s largest and most comprehensive referral and teaching hospital. Located in
the heart of Addis Ababa, it serves as the principal clinical training center for the Addis Ababa
University School of Medicine, playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s healthcare
landscape.

Comprehensive Medical Services
With a capacity of approximately 700 beds, Black Lion Specialized Hospital offers a wide array
of specialized medical services that are unparalleled in the country. The hospital is staffed by a
dedicated team of around 200 doctors, 379 nurses, and 115 other health professionals, all
committed to delivering high-quality patient care. Each year, the hospital manages over 500,000
outpatient visits and admits more than 21,000 inpatients, underscoring its critical role in
providing accessible healthcare to the Ethiopian population.

Educational Excellence
As the primary teaching hospital for Addis Ababa University’s School of Medicine, Black Lion
Specialized Hospital is integral to the education and training of Ethiopia’s future healthcare
professionals. The hospital offers comprehensive programs for undergraduate and postgraduate
students across various medical disciplines. This includes clinical and preclinical training,
ensuring that students gain hands-on experience in a real-world medical environment. The
hospital’s commitment to education extends to hosting numerous departments and faculties,
fostering an environment of continuous learning and research.

Specialized Departments
Among its many specialized units, the Department of Orthopedic Surgery stands out as a
premier center for musculoskeletal care in Ethiopia. Established in 1987, this department is
staffed by 16 consultant orthopedic surgeons and 16 residents in training. It offers a full
spectrum of services, from managing trauma cases to performing complex surgical
interventions. The department also plays a significant role in training orthopedic specialists,
thereby enhancing the country’s capacity to address musculoskeletal health issues.

Emergency Medicine and Expansion Initiatives
In response to the growing demand for emergency medical services, the hospital’s Department
of Emergency Medicine was established in 2010. This development, in collaboration with Addis
Ababa University and international partners, marked a significant milestone in enhancing the
hospital’s capacity to provide critical care. The emergency department now handles
approximately 80,000 patient visits annually, reflecting its essential role in the community.
Looking towards the future, Black Lion Specialized Hospital has unveiled ambitious plans to
construct a private wing within the next five to ten years. This initiative aims to achieve greater
financial autonomy and reduce reliance on federal funding. The proposed expansion will cover
15 hectares of land designated for this purpose, enabling the hospital to enhance its service
offerings and improve patient care.

Challenges and Commitment to Improvement
Despite its pivotal role in Ethiopia’s healthcare system, Black Lion Specialized Hospital faces
several challenges, including infrastructure limitations and resource constraints. However, the
hospital remains steadfast in its commitment to overcoming these obstacles. Efforts are
underway to upgrade facilities, expand services, and enhance the quality of care provided.
Collaborations with international partners and continuous investment in staff training are among
the strategies employed to address these challenges and uphold the hospital’s mission of
delivering exceptional healthcare services.