A visit by lawmakers to Ssentebere Regional Referral Hospital revealed troubling gaps in essential services that threaten patient care. The inspection team found the facility operating without proper storage for medicines, forcing staff to consider unconventional solutions to safeguard drugs. Â
The hospital's blood bank faces severe shortages, receiving only about half of what patients require for life-saving treatments. Surgical teams work without dozens of critical instruments, while staffing levels remain far below what's needed to properly care for the steady stream of patients. Â
Committee members expressed particular concern about the strain on medical workers trying to provide quality care with limited resources. The hospital director acknowledged the challenges but emphasised they're doing their best within current constraints. Â
Lawmakers pledged to advocate for solutions, with one senior member stating: "This hospital serves our entire region - we must find ways to support its critical work." They plan to engage health authorities to address the most pressing needs, starting with securing proper medication storage and improving blood supply coordination. Â
The findings have sparked broader discussions about ensuring all regional hospitals can meet basic standards of care. Health officials are expected to present improvement plans in the coming weeks. Â
