Medics at Mbale hospital report that frequent blackouts are affecting the functionality of the CT scan machine and other essential equipment, hindering the provision of computed tomography (CT) scan services. The hospital, lacking a standby generator, serves about 16 hospitals in the region with its CT scan machine installed by the Ministry of Health in December 2022.
| Challenges Faced | Impact on Services |
|---|---|
| Power blackouts | Patients experience delays, waiting several hours for CT scan services, costing between Shs120,000 and Shs150,000. Children and accident victims are exempt from charges. |
| Cost of Services | Patients express concern over the affordability and prioritization of service based on payment status. |
| Lack of Standby Generator | Hospital struggles to operate essential medical equipment during power outages. |
Patients, frustrated by the delays and costs, question the government’s priorities, emphasizing the need for a standby generator. Mr. Joel Wonekha, a patient, raised concerns about the government’s ability to afford expensive cars for officials but not a generator for crucial medical equipment.
Mr. Hamza Wamono, chairperson of the public accounts committee for Mbale District, stressed the necessity of a generator for critical medical services, noting that power outages can jeopardize patients’ well-being. Mr. Steven Masiga, communication officer of Masaba Cultural Institution, called for stable power supply in public facilities, suggesting that hospitals should provide services free of charge.
The Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development, Mr. Sidronius Opolot Okaasai, previously announced plans for a direct and independent power line from a new substation to address the hospital’s unstable power supply.
Dr. Nelson Anguyo, the senior radiologist, highlighted the need for a standby generator and internet access for effective operation. Dr. Stephen Obbo, the hospital director, clarified that CT scan services are not free due to the high maintenance costs and the need to recover expenses for consumables.
