Health workers at Mayuge Health Center IV have acknowledged charging fees for C-section procedures due to inadequate government supplies, leading to an indirect cost-sharing model. The health workers charge expectant mothers between 250,000-300,000 Shillings for C-section services, primarily to purchase anesthetic drugs and post-recovery medication.
Speaking anonymously, health workers explained that late enrollment for antenatal services complicates final maternal processes, increasing the demand for C-sections. The scarcity of government supplies and the need for timely intervention prompted health workers to prescribe willing patients to buy required supplies from pharmacies, a practice termed illegal but effective.
Despite not being officially sanctioned by the Ministry of Health, this approach has reportedly saved mothers, with only one mortality case registered last year due to the inability to access emergency C-section services. Health workers noted the efficiency of the process, reducing waiting times and enhancing the maternal experience.
Mayuge Health Center IV, upgraded to a higher level three years ago, still receives supplies equivalent to a health center III, insufficient for the growing catchment population of over 25,126 patients, including 1,200 pregnant mothers annually. The facility handles 120 deliveries within a two-month cycle, with only supplies for 20 mothers delivered by the National Medical Stores (NMS).
Deputy Facility In-Charge Jamir Wangubo explained the challenge, emphasizing the necessity of an indirect cost-sharing model. In this model, 19 mothers receive free services, one set of medication is reserved for emergencies, and the remaining 101 have to pay for services every two months. Mothers unable to purchase supplies are referred to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for further management.
Wangubo highlighted the limitations of government supplies and the need to balance available resources, ensuring that critical cases receive timely attention and mothers have access to necessary C-section services.
