Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, the largest health facility in Eastern Uganda, faces an acute blood shortage. This crisis has resulted in the tragic deaths of 35 children within a month.

Systemic Failures and Blood Shortage

The hospital’s blood supply is critically low. Ms. Zemei Sylvia, head of the ACUTE department, reported that insufficient blood leads to the death of over 35 children monthly. The shortage also endangers adult patients.

Community Concerns and Investigations

A team from the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) visited the hospital to investigate. They found multiple systemic failures, including the defiance of a presidential directive to remove private pharmacies from the hospital premises.

Operational Challenges at Mbale Hospital

The investigation revealed several operational issues:

1. Boda Boda Congestion: Motorcycle taxis block hospital gates, hindering access.
2. Special Hire Stage Obstruction: Another entrance is crowded with hired cars, worsening congestion.
3. Gate Blockages: Critical hospital entrances are obstructed by motorcycles and nearby pharmacies.
4. Presence of Unauthorized Personnel: Individuals from external health centers loiter on hospital grounds, disrupting care.
5. Inadequate Security: Only four policemen secure the facility, raising safety concerns.
6. Road Disrepair: Potholes at the main entrance cause delays in emergency care.
7. External Interference: Nearby businesses, like a charcoal store, disrupt hospital operations.
8. Medicine Shortages: Essential medications, including malaria treatment, are often unavailable.

Impact on Healthcare Delivery

These challenges compromise the hospital’s ability to provide adequate healthcare. The presence of private facilities owned by hospital doctors exacerbates the issue, as some doctors reportedly refer patients to their private practices for commissions.

Call for Urgent Intervention

The Mbale City Clerk’s position on the hospital’s management board raises concerns about conflicting interests. Despite previous appeals to local authorities, revenue generation is often prioritized over healthcare delivery.

In conclusion , Mbale Regional Referral Hospital’s crisis highlights the urgent need for government intervention. Addressing these systemic failures is crucial to ensuring that all patients receive equitable and quality healthcare.