Fort Portal hospital faces challenges amid healthcare improvements

21 October 2024, 11:50 am

By Byamukama Alozious

Fort Portal regional referral hospital is grappling with several challenges, including staff shortages, oxygen supply issues, and inadequate waste management. According to Dr. John Mali from the radiology department, the hospital lacks radiologists to interpret data, resulting in delayed reports. Byamukama Onesmus, a radiographer, added that the two available staff members cannot meet the high demand, expecting to serve 15 patients daily but only managing 4-5 due to limitations.

The hospital’s oxygen supply has been disrupted since the functional plant stopped working, forcing patients to buy oxygen from private providers, which poses risks due to transportation challenges. However, the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) has constructed a new oxygen plant, expected to supply all nine districts in the Tooro region, although it currently faces electricity challenges.

Regarding waste management, acting hospital director Dr. Kalisa Oscar expressed concern: “The hospital waste management system is insufficient, with only two incinerators available. This has led to waste burning, which doesn’t completely eliminate bacteria. Furthermore, locals collect and recycle hospital waste, including bottles, posing health risks. We urge the community to refrain from collecting and recycling hospital waste to prevent potential infections.”

In a positive development, the Uganda COVID-19 Response and Emergency Preparedness Project (UCREPP) has constructed a new satellite laboratory, nearly 80% complete, according to site engineer Rauben Basiime.

Doreen Nshabahurira, UCREPP’s Project Communications Officer, noted: “This state-of-the-art laboratory will serve as a center for lab tests, reducing the congestion in older labs and the need to send samples to Kampala. This facility will significantly ease diagnosis, particularly in the Tooro region, which has recently experienced outbreaks of cholera, Marburg, mpox, COVID-19, and Ebola.”

The project, funded at approximately 5 billion shillings, will provide modern and internationally recognised laboratory services to the region.

The new laboratory and oxygen plant are expected to significantly improve healthcare services in the region.