[3] Prior to independence from Belgium, the country had one of the best-regarded hospital systems on the continent - albeit one that was limited almost entirely to the white population.

Doctors at the hospital recall a time when patients were transferred from South Africa to Kinshasa for a higher level of care.

Close also oversaw the building and management of a 700-ton hospital ship that treated people up and down the Congo River.

Eventually, however, Close grew disillusioned by the growing corruption and disintegration and returned home in 1977.

Recent media reports indicate that the hospital often runs dangerously low on medical supplies, and doctors are forced to wait for patients, or their families, to bring money or even medical supplies, like bandages, before they can provide treatment.