The Chairperson of the Committee on Health, Dr. Charles Ayume, informed Parliament on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, that the Organ Transplant Unit at Mulago National Referral Hospital is fully equipped but lacks the necessary funds, requiring Shs25 billion for full operation.
Despite having two theaters and three Intensive Care Units (ICU), the unit faces functionality issues due to a shortage of essential utilities such as water, air conditioning, and a functioning drainage system. Dr. Ayume highlighted challenges, including limited water supply, inadequate air conditioning, and a malfunctioning sewerage system. He also noted that out of six lifts in the building, only one is operational.
Responding to Speaker Anita Among’s concerns about the labor crisis in the organ transplant unit, Dr. Ayume acknowledged the unit’s well-equipped ICU with 29 modern beds but emphasized the shortage of staff, with only 14 available. Speaker Among praised the quality facilities but underscored the urgent need for increased manpower, particularly in handling dialysis patients.
She pointed out that the unit, designed to accommodate 70 dialysis patients daily, currently has only 10 staff members. Furthermore, Speaker Among highlighted the lack of separate rooms for organ donors and recipients during treatment and recovery.
The discussion prompted other Members of Parliament to voice concerns about the broader state of healthcare in the country. Some MPs proposed a dedicated sitting to address healthcare issues comprehensively. Hon. Dan Atwijukire expressed the need for a thorough audit of human resources in the health sector, suggesting that the national insurance scheme bill could offer a solution.
Hon. Sarah Opendi raised concerns about limited workspace even in areas with sufficient human resources, citing examples of overcrowded hospitals such as Mbale Regional Referral Hospital. Hon. Alex Byarugaba drew attention to the congestion at Uganda Cancer Institute, where patients reportedly receive chemotherapy in corridors.
In response, the Minister of Information, Communication, Technology, and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, outlined plans to construct regional cancer centers in Gulu, Mbale, Mbarara, and Arua to alleviate congestion at the national institute and address the rising cases of cancer. Dr. Baryomunsi reported that the Gulu center is complete, while construction is ongoing in Mbale.
