Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tausi Nakato
Published on 2024-01-29 09:11:56
Authorities at Mayuge Health Centre IV in Mayuge District have reported that the facility loses approximately six babies each month due to late referrals. Dr Ismail Wangubo, the facility’s Medical Officer, stated that they receive 60 babies monthly but lose between five and six babies, with some of them being received as referrals suffering from malaria. He added that some of the babies are first treated at home, then taken to private clinics, and eventually reach the health centre when their condition is critical.
Dr Wangubo attributed the high infant mortality rate to a shortage of drugs, delayed stocking of supplies by National Medical Stores, inadequate staff, and the lack of a standby nurse in the neonatal unit. He also mentioned that the facility charges Shs250,000 for a Caesarean Section and emphasized the challenge of managing a busy maternity ward with only seven midwives.
Furthermore, Dr Wangubo explained that the facility has only two clinical officers who also have district assignments, leading to the psychiatric nurse working as a clinician to cover the gap. This shortage of staff has resulted in long waiting times for patients, with some being asked to pay for blood when the facility’s blood bank runs low.
The deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), Ms Anne Muhairwe, expressed concern over the high level of theft at the facility and the extortion of patients for blood and other medical supplies. She warned that those involved in soliciting bribes or engaging in corrupt activities would be brought to justice.
The Acting District Health Officer, Ms Elizabeth Kwagala, stated that despite warnings against extortion and the sale of blood and drugs, some health workers have continued to engage in these unlawful practices. The data from the DHO’s office revealed that Mayuge Health Centre IV, which serves as the District Referral Hospital, is severely understaffed, having only 49 staff instead of over 100.
Overall, the issues raised by the authorities at Mayuge Health Centre IV point to a lack of resources and mismanagement, contributing to the loss of lives and compromising the quality of healthcare provided to the community. These challenges urgently require attention and intervention to ensure the well-being of patients and reduce infant mortality.
