Health workers at Kyangwali Health Center IV in Kikuube district, Uganda, are grappling with an influx of patients, citing challenges such as inadequate staff, staff quarters, and limited space. The facility, serving over 171,600 people from the community and Kyangwali Refugee Settlement Camp, lacks essential infrastructure, including a mortuary and a drug store. In response to the crisis, health workers are managing about 200 mothers in the Postnatal Ward under a tent, exacerbating challenges during adverse weather conditions.
Justus Timbigamba, in charge of the facility, revealed that out of the 96 staff members, 43 sleep at the facility, while others face challenges with accommodation, leading to late reporting and absenteeism. The facility lacks structures to handle the high patient load, resulting in mothers being managed in makeshift arrangements. The Neonatal Care Unit, recently commissioned by Baylor Uganda, aims to address some challenges, providing critical equipment for neonatal care.
Dr. Richard Mugahi, Commissioner for Reproductive Health at the health ministry, acknowledged the resource constraints and suggested that the facility’s management engage development partners for support. Dr. Tom Ediambo, acting director of Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, expressed concern about the facility’s situation, emphasizing the need for support to handle overwhelming patient admissions.
The Resident District Commissioner of Kikuube, Amlan Tumusiime, commended Baylor Uganda for its support in constructing the Neonatal Care Unit. However, he cautioned health workers against neglecting duties and raised concerns about absenteeism and late reporting, emphasizing the importance of improving health service delivery.
