In a bid to address ongoing concerns over extortion and other challenges, Luwero Hospital has taken decisive action by terminating the internship of two medical students and launching an investigation into a health worker allegedly involved in extortion.
The hospital’s administration convened a meeting with local leaders and residents on Wednesday at the Luwero Sub-county Community Hall to solicit feedback on health services. While acknowledging improvements, participants highlighted issues such as extortion, poor sanitation, and congestion as major concerns.
According to Eddie Zziwa, a district councillor, mothers have reported instances where midwives and doctors demand money for services, including deliveries and surgeries. Such practices not only deter patients from seeking care but also undermine public trust in the hospital.
Faridah Najjuma and Margaret Nansubuga, district councillors, echoed concerns about overcrowded maternity wards and unsanitary conditions, which could drive patients away from the facility.
Dr. Bruno Oyik, the medical superintendent, acknowledged these grievances and assured attendees that measures were being taken to address them. He disclosed that two medical interns were expelled for soliciting payments from patients without supervision, in violation of hospital guidelines.
Furthermore, Oyik revealed that a health worker is under investigation for alleged extortion, with reports indicating that patients were being charged between Shs 200,000 and Shs 250,000 unlawfully.
To combat such malpractices, the hospital has established call lines for patients to report incidents of extortion or misconduct. Any staff member found culpable will face disciplinary action.
The crackdown on extortion follows a directive issued by Bernard Okello, the Luwero district human resource officer, prohibiting medical students from treating patients unsupervised. Okello emphasized that trainees engaged in such misconduct would be expelled from the program and reported to the police for criminal charges.
Residents have been urged to report any instances of extortion or misconduct to Dr. Innocent Nkonwa, the district health officer, for immediate action.
In taking these measures, Luwero Hospital aims to uphold ethical standards, enhance patient trust, and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare for all residents.
