Mbarara Referral Hospital celebrated World Prematurity Day, honoring preterm champions and highlighting milestones, challenges, and solutions in managing preterm babies.
The event, themed “Access to Quality Care Everywhere,” attracted top officials from the Ministry of Health, Uganda Pediatric Association, and development partners like USAID and Rotary Club.
Dr. Elias Kumba Kumba, Head of Pediatric and Child Health, noted that the hospital has implemented innovative measures to combat preterm deaths, reducing mortality rates from 20% to 6%.
This achievement is attributed to the Ministry of Health’s efforts and support from USAID through the USAID Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital Strengthening Activity, which provided essential medical equipment.
Dr. Stella Kyoyagala, the hospital’s Head of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, highlighted key interventions such as training NICU staff and implementing Kangaroo Mother Care, supported by Rotary Club. These initiatives have significantly reduced infant mortality rates. Additionally, the provision of medical equipment through USAID, Maltaser, and other partners has played a crucial role in improving care.
Ms. Irene Atuhaire, a mother whose preterm baby received care at the hospital, shared a heartfelt testimony about her experience. She expressed gratitude to the hospital staff for their support in helping her child survive.
Despite these successes, the hospital faces challenges, including staffing shortages. Dr. Francis Oriokot, Senior Consultant Pediatrician and Deputy Director of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, emphasized the need for specialized staff, particularly senior consultant neonatologists and nurses.
The government has been urged to provide special consideration to the hospital due to its wide range of specialized services. Dr. Deogratius Migadde, Senior Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health, commended the hospital’s efforts and acknowledged the government’s commitment to addressing challenges in healthcare.
Hon. Margaret Rwebyambu, Mbarara District Woman Member of Parliament and member of the Parliamentary Health Committee, thanked healthcare workers for their dedication and urged the government to expedite the recruitment of staff to alleviate the staffing shortage.
The event concluded with awards for best performers, including Dr. Elias Kumba Kumba, NICU nurses, and pediatric residents. The hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Halson Kagure, noted that the awards aim to recognize and motivate staff.
Annually, approximately 220,000 babies are born preterm in Uganda, highlighting the ongoing challenge of preterm birth and the need for continued efforts to improve care for these vulnerable infants.
