Kampala, Uganda – In a move set to redefine specialist healthcare in Uganda, Case Hospital has unveiled its state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) as part of its Case at 30 years: A Legacy of Care, A Future of Innovation campaign.
Celebrating 30 years of unwavering commitment to patient centered care, this milestone underscores the hospital’s transformation from a general practice clinic into one of the country’s premier tertiary healthcare institutions.
Speaking at the launch, Evelyn Birungi, the Public Relations and Communications Manager, emphasized the importance of this innovation in Uganda’s healthcare landscape. “Every year, nearly 19.8 million people die of heart-related diseases globally, and Uganda is no exception. Too often, patients only discover they have heart disease when it’s too late. Our new Cath Lab is a game changer. It enables early diagnosis, life-saving intervention, and local access to global-standard care,” she said.
Dr. A.K. Sebbaale, CEO of Case Hospital, described the Cath Lab as a strategic leap toward reducing medical tourism and improving cardiovascular care within the country. “Too many Ugandans don’t get care in time or fly abroad at great cost. Our Cath Lab offers cutting-edge cardiac care right here in Kampala. This facility not only saves lives but keeps families together and healthcare within reach,” he noted.
He explained that the Cath Lab is a specialized unit equipped with advanced imaging technology that allows doctors to diagnose and treat heart conditions without the need for open surgery.
“It offers procedures such as angiograms, angioplasty, and stent placement, among many others,” he added.
Dr. Andrew Ddamulira, a physician at Case Hospital, further explained that the Cath Lab is also used to manage strokes, prevent amputations, treat lung hypertension, and address fibroids and enlarged prostates all without invasive surgery.
Dr. Miriam Apiyo, Medical Director and pediatrician, shared a powerful story of a hypertensive patient who underwent a successful triple-stent procedure. “Within 24 hours, he was back on his feet. That’s the beauty of what we’re doing here treating critical conditions quickly, safely, and affordably,” she said.
She also highlighted the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially hypertension, which affects up to 30% of Ugandans, yet often goes undiagnosed until complications arise.
“For every three people with hypertension, only one seeks medical help. This has to change and the Cath Lab is part of that change, offering both treatment and prevention,” said Dr. Apiyo.
Healthcare Innovation for Ugandans, by Ugandans
Unlike many facilities that rely heavily on expatriate talent, the Case Cath Lab is fully staffed by Ugandan specialists a point of pride for the institution. “It’s not just about the equipment,” said Dr. Sebbaale. “It’s about the people behind it, trained Ugandan professionals delivering world-class care.”
The lab also enables minimally invasive vascular procedures, including treating blocked arteries that would otherwise lead to amputations helping patients retain limbs and reclaim their quality of life.
Community Outreach & Digital Education
As part of the campaign, Case Hospital has launched the “Your Heart, Your Case” initiative, a multi-platform digital series aimed at educating the public on heart health. the initiative features; Patient success stories, Heart health webinars, Behind-the-scenes Cath Lab tours, and Preventive health tips
Simultaneously, free medical outreaches in Naalya, Entebbe, Kira, and Jinja will offer; Blood pressure, blood sugar & BMI checks, ECG screenings, Vascular health assessments, and Lifestyle counseling
Affordability and Access
Despite the high end nature of the facility, Case Hospital is committed to making Cath Lab services as affordable and accessible as possible.
Procedures such as coronary angiography and stenting, which would typically cost thousands of dollars abroad, are now available locally saving both lives and costs.
“Depending on the case, procedures range from USD 1,000 to 4,000 far lower than what you’d spend traveling out of Uganda,” explained Ronald Akankwasa, Chief Operations Officer.
“We’re building a future where every Ugandan can access the care they need affordably, timely, and within their country,” he added.
As Case Hospital marks three decades of excellence, the message is clear: compassionate care and cutting-edge technology can and must coexist. The Cath Lab is more than a medical facility; it’s a symbol of progress, equity, and faith in Uganda’s healthcare future,” he emphasized.
