Obongi Health Centre IV in Northern Uganda operates without X-ray and ultrasound machines. This revelation came to light during an interview on Monday evening with The Ankole Times newspaper reporter, conducted by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Samuel Mpimbasa Hasaka.
The RDC of Obongi discovered that since the creation of Obongi Health Centre IV, it has never been equipped with an X-ray machine. Furthermore, the ultrasound machine, which broke down in May of the previous year, has yet to be repaired.
This distressing situation was brought to the attention of the RDC during his monitoring visit to Obongi Health Centre IV on Monday. Health workers informed the RDC that patients in need of X-ray services are currently referred to Adjumani district, requiring them to travel by ferry and then either by bodaboda for about 50 km or to Arua City, which is over 100 km away from Obongi town. The cost of such travel is prohibitive for many, leading to over 90% of patients returning home without the necessary X-ray services.
The health workers also mentioned that the sole existing ultrasound machine, an ancient and outdated model, malfunctioned in May of the previous year and has yet to be repaired, despite the matter being reported to the district authorities.
Adriru, a 47-year-old resident, shared his experience, stating that those in need of ultrasound services are forced to travel to Adjumani, Arua, or a nearby private clinic where they must pay a significant amount of money.
While engaging with patients and health workers, the RDC expressed his surprise at the longstanding issue and questioned why the situation had not been addressed or reported to his office. He assured them that his office would take immediate action to address the matter.
The health workers emphasized that despite multiple reminders about the non-functionality of the ultrasound machine, crucial for monitoring pregnant women and patients’ organs, their concerns had been consistently ignored. They urged the RDC to promptly inform the Minister of Health and the Permanent Secretary to intervene and provide assistance.
