Kilembe Mines Hospital in Kasese District is operating without enough drugs and other essential equipment six months after it was shifted from Kasese town.
The hospital temporarily shifted to Kasese town in June 2021 following floods that washed away a section of the facility in 2020.
As the health facility was relocated back, Kilembe mines then offered some of its old structures adjacent to those destroyed by floods to accommodate the hospital while the diocese opted to continue its services as St. Mary’s hospital in Kasese town.
Patients say they are being turned away and referred to other health facilities in town for medical examination and treatment due to a lack of essential medical equipment and drugs.
Dr. Bernard Balyana, the medical superintendent says that the hospital lacks anti-malarial drugs, antibiotics, vaccines, medical equipment such as x-ray, ultrasound machines, and medical supplies such as syringes, gloves, and gauze among others.
He said that since they shifted back to Kilembe, they have also been struggling to make referrals due to the lack of ambulance services.
Dr. Balyana speaking…….
Dr. Balyana thinks for government to support both Kilembe Mines and Mt. St. Mary`s hospitals, health services would greatly improve for the good of the local population. Dr. Balyana speaking2……
Mr. Richard Bomera, the Bulembia Division local council three chairperson said they will continue lobbying government until it provides like before.
The Health Ministry Spokesperson, Emmanuel Ainebyoona attributes the challenge to poor coordination between National Medical Stores- and the hospital, a situation he said, can be rectified. END