By Haron Okwir
Otuke, Uganda | Residents of Otuke District have raised alarm over overcrowding at Orum Health Centre IV and are now demanding the construction of a new ward to address the growing patient population.
The concerns came to light during a public baraza held on Monday, 23rd June 2025, organized by Doctors With Africa CUAMM (Collegio Universitario Aspiranti Medici Missionari) to gather public feedback on health service delivery in the district.
Participants included patients, caretakers, local leaders, and health workers.
Among the concerns raised was the poor attitude of some health workers. Sophia Oguma, a patient from Adwirpida Cell suffering from diabetes, revealed that she had been publicly shouted at by medical staff, an experience she said undermined her dignity and discouraged her from seeking help at government facilities.
Christine Adongo, also from Adwirpida Cell, expressed frustration over the delay in service delivery.
She noted that patients often wait long hours before being attended to and appealed to local leaders to intervene by constructing a new ward.
Moses Ocoo, a resident of Alenga Village in Alango Sub-county, described the lack of a proper ward and isolation center as a pressing issue.
He urged political leaders and district officials to prioritize the construction of additional infrastructure to improve healthcare access.
Ayoo Regina, a patient attendant at Orum HCIV, pointed out that while the Outpatient Department (OPD) is struggling, the maternity ward is in even worse condition.
According to her, nurses in the maternity section show little concern for patients, leading to deteriorating trust in the system.
Other challenges highlighted by residents included alleged informal payments demanded by health workers in the theatre, staff shortages, and drug stockouts.
In response, Dr. James Olum, the in-charge at Orum HCIV, acknowledged the concerns and pledged to address them.
He also advised expectant mothers to arrive at the facility well-prepared, citing cases where patients come to deliver without basic necessities.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Lomongin Joseph explained that the issue of inadequate drug supply stems from challenges at the National Medical Stores and not from the district.
He called on health workers to utilize available equipment efficiently and urged village birth attendants to refer expectant mothers to health facilities for safer deliveries.
Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Okwameri Francis proposed the introduction of staff identity tags to improve accountability.
He also urged the community to take responsibility, particularly warning against early teenage pregnancies, which he said continue to overwhelm the facility.
The event ended with a renewed call for district leaders and national stakeholders to step up efforts in addressing the persistent health challenges in Otuke.