Ministry of Health strengthens referral system in Zombo District

Zombo District, with a population of about 294,230, faces significant challenges related to its referral system, particularly impacting expectant mothers and individuals with other medical complications. The lack of standard ambulances has often left patients stranded, with some resorting to delivering on the way to referral facilities.

In response to these pressing needs, the Ministry of Health has donated a class B Toyota Land Cruiser Ambulance, registered as UG 8154 M, to the district under emergency medical services. This modern ambulance is poised to alleviate some of the referral challenges faced by the community, with one unit stationed at Paidha Health Center III, serving Okoro constituency, and another expected for Ora Constituency.

Dr. Mark Bramali, the acting District Health Officer, highlighted the importance of proper ambulance management, including training for staff to ensure efficient service delivery. He emphasized that these services would be provided free of charge, addressing a critical gap in healthcare accessibility.

The local leadership, including LCV Chairperson James Oruna Oyullu and RDC Retired Lt. Col Pius Alitema, commended the government’s initiative and called upon the community to utilize the ambulance responsibly. They stressed the need to maintain and preserve the ambulance for its intended purpose, cautioning against any misuse, such as transporting deceased individuals.

Moreover, plans are underway to repair the old ambulance to further bolster the district’s referral capabilities. With the imminent arrival of the second ambulance for Ora Constituency, Zombo District is poised to witness improvements in its healthcare infrastructure, benefiting its nine health centre IIIs, eight health centre IIs, and Nyapea General Hospital.

However, challenges persist, especially along the Uganda-DR Congo border, where health facilities face overwhelming demand from neighbouring regions. Nevertheless, the donation of modern ambulances marks a significant step towards addressing these healthcare disparities and ensuring timely access to critical medical services for all residents of Zombo District.