By: Pascal Onega Abooki
Buliisa, Uganda – Authorities at Biiso Health Center IV in Biiso Town Council are calling on the health department to urgently recruit more health workers to tackle severe understaffing.
The facility in-charge, Dr. Jonan Alinaitwe, told our reporter that the hospital is overwhelmed, with only one anesthetic officer and one theatre assistant managing multiple daily caesarean operations. On average, 4 to 6 patients require theatre services each day, leaving the lone anesthetist overstretched.
Cue Dr. Alinaitwe (English):
Between 5th and 12th September, mothers were left waiting on operating tables for hours as doctors and midwives stood ready but without an anesthetist to begin surgery. In some cases, patients had to be referred because the surgical team was incomplete.”
Dr. Alinaitwe warned that without urgent recruitment, mothers’ safety remains at serious risk.
Cue Dr. Alinaitwe (English):
“We urgently need more staff to ensure safe operations and timely care for our mothers.”
He also dismissed allegations that patients are being charged for theatre services.
Cue Dr. Alinaitwe (English):
“Biiso Health Center does not charge patients for theatre services. All services are free as per government policy.”
Meanwhile, District Health Secretary Harriet Atuhairwe, who also represents Kihungya Sub County, confirmed that the district plans to recruit additional staff but is awaiting wage bill clearance.
Cue Atuhairwe (Lugungu):
“District plans to recruit more health workers are underway once the wage bill is approved.”
She further warned health workers against absenteeism and neglect of duty, a problem reported in some facilities across the district.
Cue Atuhairwe (Luganda):
“All health workers must report to duty. Neglecting patients is unacceptable and will be dealt with strictly.”
