Excellence in Specialized Healthcare Since 1934
ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital is one of Ethiopia’s largest and leading federal comprehensive specialized hospitals, delivering advanced clinical care, medical education, research, and innovation. Located in Kolfe Keranyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa, the hospital serves as a national referral center, providing high-quality specialized healthcare to patients from across Ethiopia and neighboring countries.
For more than 90 years, ALERT has been at the forefront of healthcare transformation in Ethiopia. From its origins as Africa’s pioneering center for leprosy treatment and rehabilitation, the hospital has evolved into a modern multidisciplinary institution committed to excellence in patient care, education, research, innovation, and health systems strengthening.
Today, ALERT operates 654 inpatient beds, employs 2,050 highly dedicated healthcare professionals and support staff, provides 36 clinical specialties and 9 subspecialty services, and delivers comprehensive healthcare through 22 clinical and administrative departments. The hospital serves more than 1,500 patients every day, records over 560,000 outpatient visits, 18,500 inpatient admissions, and 31,000 emergency cases annually, while performing more than 20,800 surgical procedures each year.
As part of its ongoing transformation, ALERT is undertaking the largest expansion in its history through the construction of Ethiopia’s first 500-bed National Trauma Center, a 300-bed Dermatology and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Center, and the establishment of the National Biomedical Engineering and Medical Equipment Refurbishment Center, further strengthening its position as a national center of excellence for specialized healthcare.
The history of ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital dates back to 1934, when the Sudan Interior Mission (SIM) established a leprosarium dedicated to the care of people affected by Hansen’s disease (leprosy). During the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie I, the institution was named Princess Zenebework Memorial Hospital in honor of the late Princess Zenebework.
Recognizing the growing burden of leprosy across Africa and the need for a specialized institution dedicated to treatment, rehabilitation, training, and research, the Government of Ethiopia and international partners established the All-Africa Leprosy, Tuberculosis and Rehabilitation Training Centre (ALERT) on 11 December 1965.
Over the following decades, ALERT became Ethiopia’s foremost referral center for leprosy and its complications. The institution pioneered comprehensive approaches to patient care, disability prevention, community-based rehabilitation, professional training, and operational research. ALERT also played a significant role in the introduction and implementation of Multidrug Therapy (MDT), a breakthrough that transformed the global management of leprosy.
In recognition of its outstanding contribution to global health, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated ALERT as a WHO Collaborating Centre for International Leprosy Training, acknowledging its leadership in professional education, technical support, and international collaboration.
Following Ethiopia’s integration of leprosy and tuberculosis services into the primary healthcare system in 1995, ALERT expanded its mandate beyond leprosy to become a comprehensive specialized healthcare institution. In 2002, the hospital became a federal institution under the Federal Ministry of Health, reinforcing its strategic role within Ethiopia’s healthcare system.
Today, while preserving its historic leadership in leprosy care and rehabilitation, ALERT has transformed into one of Ethiopia’s leading comprehensive specialized hospitals, delivering advanced healthcare services across a broad range of medical and surgical disciplines.
ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital provides 36 clinical specialties and 9 subspecialty services supported by multidisciplinary teams, advanced medical technologies, and evidence-based clinical practice.
Our major areas of service include:
ALERT continues to deliver high-volume, high-quality specialized healthcare while expanding access to advanced tertiary services.
Over the past three years, ALERT has significantly expanded its surgical capacity.
Continuous investment in quality has resulted in measurable improvements across the hospital.
Education, training, and research have been central to ALERT’s mission since its establishment.
The hospital serves as a major teaching institution for undergraduate, postgraduate, and continuing professional education, working closely with universities, professional colleges, the Ministry of Health, and national and international partners to strengthen Ethiopia’s health workforce.
ALERT is also home to the internationally renowned Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), one of Africa’s leading biomedical research institutions. Since its establishment in 1970, AHRI has made globally recognized contributions to research on leprosy, tuberculosis, neglected tropical diseases, immunology, and public health.
Through its research and academic programs, ALERT continues to:
Innovation is central to ALERT’s vision for the future. The hospital continues to invest in:
These initiatives support ALERT’s commitment to delivering smarter, safer, more efficient, and patient-centered healthcare.
Building on more than 90 years of excellence, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital is shaping the future of specialized healthcare in Ethiopia through innovation, strategic investment, and national leadership.
A landmark project that will become Ethiopia’s first National Trauma Center, providing comprehensive trauma, emergency, surgical, and critical care services while serving as a national center for clinical excellence, education, research, and disaster preparedness.
A state-of-the-art national referral center that will expand access to specialized dermatology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, burn care, microsurgery, rehabilitation, education, and research.
This pioneering national center will strengthen Ethiopia’s healthcare system by providing biomedical engineering services, preventive maintenance, calibration, refurbishment, quality assurance, and lifecycle management of medical equipment. It will enhance the reliability and sustainability of healthcare technologies, build national technical capacity, reduce equipment downtime, and support healthcare institutions across the country.
In addition, ALERT remains committed to:
For more than 90 years, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital has remained dedicated to improving lives through compassionate care, clinical excellence, education, research, and innovation.
Today, ALERT stands as one of Ethiopia’s largest and leading federal comprehensive specialized hospitals, a nationally trusted referral center, a premier teaching institution, a recognized leader in medical research, and a driving force in healthcare innovation and health systems strengthening.
Guided by our commitment to excellence, integrity, compassion, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, we remain dedicated to transforming healthcare, advancing medical science, and building a healthier future for Ethiopia, Africa, and beyond.
Your Health is Our Mission.
Welcome to the official website of ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. It is my great pleasure to welcome you to ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, one of Ethiopia’s leading federal comprehensive specialized hospitals, dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered healthcare, advancing medical education and research, and contributing to the strengthening of the nation’s health system. For more than nine decades, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital has been a trusted center of excellence in specialized healthcare. Today, the hospital provides comprehensive services across a broad range of specialties, including trauma and emergency care, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, rehabilitation, critical care, and many other specialized clinical services. Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled professionals is committed to delivering safe, compassionate, equitable, and evidence-based care to every patient we serve. As a federal public hospital accountable to the Ministry of Health, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital plays a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s healthcare system. Beyond delivering specialized clinical services, we are committed to training the next generation of health professionals, advancing research and innovation, fostering strategic partnerships, and supporting national health priorities through excellence in service delivery and institutional leadership. Innovation, quality improvement, patient safety, and digital transformation are at the heart of our strategic direction. We continuously invest in modern technologies, strengthen our systems, and cultivate a culture of continuous learning to ensure that our patients receive timely, effective, and compassionate care. Looking to the future, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital is committed to expanding access to high-quality specialized healthcare through the continued development of centers of excellence, including a state-of-the-art National Trauma Center, the Plastic Surgery and Dermatology Center, the Pediatric Eye Care Center, and other specialized services that respond to the evolving healthcare needs of Ethiopia and the region. Our vision is for ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital to be a nationally and internationally recognized center of excellence in patient care, education, research, innovation, and health system leadership. Achieving this vision requires collaboration, dedication, and the trust of our patients, partners, and stakeholders. Thank you for visiting the website of ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. We invite you to explore our services, learn more about our work, and join us in our shared mission of transforming lives through excellence in healthcare, education, research, innovation, and community service.
Together, we are building a healthier future for Ethiopia.
Dr. Shimelis Gezahegn
MD, Obstetrician & Gynecologist
Chief Executive Director
ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital
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 is nationally recognized for excellence in highly specialized healthcare and continues to strengthen its role through dedicated Centers of Excellence in:
These Centers of Excellence integrate specialized clinical care, education, research, innovation, and advanced technology to improve patient outcomes, develop highly skilled professionals, and strengthen Ethiopia’s healthcare system.
A landmark project that will become Ethiopia’s first National Trauma Center, providing comprehensive trauma, emergency, surgical, and critical care services while serving as a national center for clinical excellence, education, research, and disaster preparedness.
A state-of-the-art national referral center that will expand access to specialized dermatology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, burn care, microsurgery, rehabilitation, education, and research.
This pioneering national center will strengthen Ethiopia’s healthcare system by providing biomedical engineering services, preventive maintenance, calibration, refurbishment, quality assurance, and lifecycle management of medical equipment. It will enhance the reliability and sustainability of healthcare technologies, build national technical capacity, reduce equipment downtime, and support healthcare institutions across the country.
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.
