Medical camp exposes healthcare needs as clinic seeks expansion

13 October 2026, 9:02 pm

By Geoffrey Okwong

The high demand for healthcare services during an Independence Day medical camp in Pader Town Council has renewed calls for improved medical infrastructure and access to specialised treatment in the district.

The camp, organised through a partnership involving Grace Wellness Charity Support Uganda Limited and Ultimate Choice Clinic, attracted more than 500 people, according to the reported turnout, with patients seeking assistance for a range of health conditions.

Grace Marion Ndagire, director of Grace Wellness Charity Support Uganda Limited, said the organisation had expected more than 1,500 patients but recorded a lower turnout because of competing Independence Day celebrations.

She said the initiative was part of broader plans to improve healthcare services in Pader, beginning with support for Ultimate Choice Clinic.

Ndagire said the charity donated a new microscope to the clinic in April to strengthen diagnostic services and was considering further assistance, including renovations and additional medical equipment.

Ambrose Ongwech, director of Ultimate Choice Clinic, said the facility had acquired its current premises in 2019 after previously operating from rented accommodation.

He said the clinic was still undertaking renovations and had additional land measuring approximately 60 by 80 metres that could support future development plans.

Ongwech said the clinic intended to compile findings from the medical camp and share them with district leaders and potential partners to help mobilise support for improved healthcare services.

He also acknowledged the contributions of participating organisations, including K-Frank Group of Companies, Build Your Smile Dental Foundation, SARAFINA Sickle Cell Society and Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital.

The camp provided eye examinations, dental services and sickle cell screening, among other interventions, with participating health professionals reporting considerable demand for care.

Frank Kibepu, a dentist with K-Frank Group of Companies, said the number of people seeking dental treatment was higher than he had anticipated.

He called for more community outreach activities and health education to help residents identify health problems early and seek appropriate treatment.

Meanwhile, Ndagire said the charity hoped to work with additional donors to provide equipment such as a complete blood count machine and improve the clinic’s infrastructure.

She said the organisation also planned to explore other community interventions, including clean-water initiatives and practical skills training.

Ongwech said the clinic would continue providing health education to patients while pursuing partnerships to improve its services.

The organisers said continued collaboration between healthcare providers, charitable organisations and local authorities would be important in addressing the health needs identified during the outreach.