By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
Mbarara
Holy Innocents children’s hospital has been praised for its holistic healthcare and commitment to excellence in pediatric care in western Uganda.
Archbishop of Mbarara, Lambert Bainomugisha, addressed healthcare workers at the hospital and encouraged them to continue performing their duties diligently. This came at a health assembly organized by the management and board of directors of the hospital in order to gain feedback and improve service delivery.
Dr. Businge Stephen, the CEO of the hospital, spoke about the commitment and training required to care for young children. The hospital staff has undergone several trainings on how to handle children, resulting in the facility receiving positive testimonials from clients.
Atukwasa Rita Bwahika, Woman MP Mbarara City, highlighted a previous government provision of support to the hospital, including the payment of salaries to 17 staff members, which was later stopped abruptly without clear explanation. She pledged to investigate this decision, stating that it is the responsibility of the government to support private facilities like hospitals that benefit citizens.
Challenges facing the hospital include a lack of enough wards and low pay for staff, which leads to attrition. There is also an increase in cultural practices, such as false tooth extraction(Okukuura ebiino) that contribute to a significant percentage of neonatal deaths.
Dr. Businge called on local leaders to promote good health practices and address myths that prevent proper healthcare.
Holy Innocents children’s hospital offers specialized surgeries and has a state-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which has helped reduce neonatal deaths. Overall, the hospital has garnered praise for its holistic approach and commitment to improving pediatric healthcare in western Uganda.
Tumusiime Robert the hospital administrator in his remarks pledged to work on all the issues that were raised during the assembly as it has always been their practice to respond to their clients queries.He noted that with provision of infrastructure, the hospital is planning to add more services like dental and opthalmology services among others.
