Medication Shortage Hits Health Centres in Uganda as Patients Struggle

DLHA Staff Reporter

Map of Uganda showing Mbarara

The picture is familiar across many African countries; while big and small white elephant facilities are built across the landscape, essential medical supplies needed to run them are regularly out-of-stock or in short supply.

Uganda is no exception as demonstrated by patients under the Kashari Diabetic and Hypertension Association who have raised serious concerns over a critical shortage of essential medications at health centres in Mbarara.

While Mbarara district boasts modern facilities like Bwizibwera Health Centre IV, patients are struggling to access the vital drugs needed to manage their chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.

Many patients, particularly those with diabetes and hypertension, are left waiting in long lines, only to find their medications unavailable. The out-of-stock condition puts patient’s health at significant risk, making it difficult for them to manage their conditions properly.

"I’ve been coming here for weeks, but there haven’t been any drugs available for a while," one patient shared.

Oliva Akankunda, Vice Chairperson of the association, expressed the growing frustration of its members, saying, “We represent about 400 diabetes and hypertension patients from Mbarara District and neighboring areas, and most of them are struggling to access the medication they need."

The essential medical supplies crisis has left patients and their families anxious, with no clear solutions in sight, despite the presence of well-equipped facilities.

Source: Nile Post

Published: October 25, 2024

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