SEMBABULE DISTRICT : The Officer in Charge of Sembabule Health Centre IV, Dr. Deogratuis Kalinzi, has commended the government for the continued support extended to the facility, saying it has significantly increased the number of patients seeking medical services.
Dr. Kalinzi made the remarks while addressing a delegation of journalists visiting the district. The reporters were dispatched by the World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda Country Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to assess the impact of the World Diabetes Foundation (WDF)-funded diabetes and hypertension project being implemented in the four districts of Sembabule, Lira, Koboko, and Kabale.
He praised the State Minister for Health, Dr. Hanifa Kawooya Bangirana, for her efforts in lobbying for the four-year project aimed at combating the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes and hypertension.
According to Dr. Kalinzi, who also heads the Mawogola Health Sub-District, the project has greatly strengthened healthcare systems in the area, especially in the management of NCDs.
“The project objectives have largely been achieved, as reflected in the increasing number of patients visiting our facility for treatment and screening services,” he said.
He revealed that during the first quarter of this year alone, the facility’s Out-Patient Department (OPD) registered 5,589 patients who underwent screening. A significant number were diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension and were immediately enrolled on treatment.
Dr. Kalinzi noted that before the Ministry of Health introduced the integrated patient care system, patient turnout remained low and services were fragmented across different clinics. However, attendance improved significantly after the facility adopted WHO-initiated patient support groups under the chronic care clinic model, where patients can now access multiple clinical services under one roof.
“With the support of the minister, our facility’s budget allocation increased from UGX 35 million to UGX 45 million this financial year. This additional funding will greatly strengthen service delivery to the population,” he said.
He added that the recent technical support, including professional skills training for health workers and equipment donations from WHO, will help position Sembabule District among the leading areas in quality healthcare service delivery.
Dr. Kalinzi further appreciated Dr. Kawooya for advocating for increased funding to the health centre, noting that the additional resources will improve the availability of drugs and other medical supplies, ultimately enhancing healthcare services for the community.
