Members of Parliament from the Committee on Health are urging for working operating theatres in health facilities across the Kigezi sub-region.
Led by Hon. Nicholas Kamara, the MPs are currently assessing the state of health services in hospitals and health centers in the sub-region.
During their visit to Busanza Health Centre IV in Kisoro District on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, the MPs observed that the health facility has been without a functional theatre for over a decade since its upgrade.
Hon. Margret Ayebare emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to establish a theatre at Busanza Health Centre IV, considering its location and distance from the general hospital.
Jackline Kyokunzire, a nurse at Busanza Health Centre IV, expressed frustration over the delayed construction of the promised theatre, highlighting the potential improvement in patient care once it is operational.
At Kisoro General Hospital, the MPs discovered a deteriorating operating theatre and recommended its condemnation due to safety concerns for both patients and staff.
Hon. Betty Chelain appealed to the Ministry of Health to take urgent action, either demolishing or renovating the unsafe theatre.
In a meeting with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine, the MPs discussed the status of operating theatres, and for Busanza Health Centre IV, it was reported that the contract has been signed, and construction will begin soon.
To enhance health service efficiency, Hon. George Didi Bhoka advised local governments to prioritize the operationalization of health centers to alleviate the burden on general hospitals.
However, the MPs were impressed with health service delivery in Rubanda District, where both health center IVs had functional operating theatres and essential equipment. Rubanda recently ranked fourth in health service delivery, with only two maternal deaths during childbirth in the last five years.
Dr. Alex Kwizera, the Rubanda District Health Officer, attributed their success to teamwork, commitment, and supervision.
The Committee was set to conduct more oversight visits in Kabale District while another section of the committee is engaged in similar activities in the districts of Rukungiri, Rukiga, and Kanungu.