By Diphas Kiguli
Mukono Uganda. St. Francis Hospital-Naggalama located in Mukono district has introduced modern Computed Tomography (CT-Scan) services to address the rampant internal bleeding crisis.
According to Dr. Stephen Mulindwa, the Mukono District Health Officer, all residents within Mukono region and beyond can leverage the services to save lives.
The initiative aims to address the escalating number of patients succumbing to internal bleeding, particularly those impacted by accidents along the Kampala-Jinja Highway and Bugerere main routes.
Dr. Mulindwa stressed the critical need for timely access to internal examinations, highlighting the challenges of transporting patients to major hospitals in Kampala and Jinja.
The heavy traffic congestion and long queues at renowned medical facilities have, unfortunately, contributed to numerous fatalities related to internal bleeding.
“By introducing the CT-Scan services at Naggalama, an intermediary point, we hope to eliminate unnecessary loss of lives caused by delays in accessing crucial medical diagnostics,” Dr. Mulindwa stated.
Greater Mukono encompasses the districts of Buikwe, Kayunga, Buvuma, and Mukono. Its strategic proximity to Kampala Capital City has led to a consistent rise in population over time.
However, patients requiring internal examinations have faced difficulties in obtaining timely results.
Speaking to this website, Dr. Emmanuel Higenyi, the Director of Technical Medical Services at Joint Medical Stores, revealed the collaboration with Naggalama Hospital in acquiring a CT-Scan worth Ugx970,948,710 (USD255,000).
The advanced technology promises precise identification of medical conditions, enabling doctors to administer prompt and timely treatments, ultimately saving lives.
“The necessity of improved technology in hospitals is paramount for proper and timely diagnosis, crucial in managing the growing health complications among the populace,” added Dr. Higenyi.
Retired Bishop Mathias Ssekamanya, formerly of Lugazi diocese, urged the Ugandan government to extend modern technologies to various health facilities, particularly in semi-urban and urban areas.
He emphasised the importance of improving the health sector and called for quality services in hospitals under the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau.
Rev. Sister Jane Francis Nakafeero, the Hospital Director in charge of Administration, highlighted the meticulous procurement process that led to Joint Medical Store emerging as the preferred supplier for the CT-Scan.
She noted that the payment terms allow for the machine’s completion in 24 months and shared updates on the increasing number of specialists at the facility, including a neurosurgeon scheduled to start work in February.
“With our Outpatient department supporting 75,000 patients, 30,000 immunisations, 2,500 deliveries, and a workforce of 165 committed staff, we believe that with the CT-Scan, we can significantly enhance the quality of life for our community,” explained Sr. Nakafeero.
Sulaiman Musoke Ssalongo, the Village Health Team (VHT) coordinator from Mangira village, Nakibano parish in Nakifuma County, expressed gratitude for the essential role played by private not-for-profit hospitals in bridging health gaps where government facilities fall short.
He called on the government to draw inspiration from these facilities in executing its mandate and ensuring comprehensive healthcare access for all.
Joint Medical Stores
Dr. Kenneth Rubongo, the Director of Biomedical Engineering at JMS, explains that the recently acquired CT scan technology in Naggalama allows the capture of three-dimensional (3D) images, which can be swiftly interpreted by radiologists in Kampala within five minutes.
This capability ensures a prompt diagnosis for a population exceeding 300,000 Ugandans across five districts. JMS is currently in discussions with Kampala Imaging Centre to establish a partnership for radiology specialists to handle the image interpretation.
The risk of internal bleeding
Severe internal bleeding poses various risks, including shock, marked by significant blood loss causing a drop in blood pressure and potentially leading to a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical attention.
Additionally, internal bleeding can result in organ damage as it deprives tissues of oxygen and nutrients; for instance, bleeding in the brain may cause a stroke, while abdominal bleeding can harm organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys.
Pain and swelling may accompany internal bleeding, particularly evident if it occurs in joints or muscles. Chronic or recurrent internal bleeding can lead to anaemia, characterised by a low red blood cell count, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
In severe cases, untreated internal bleeding can be fatal. Seeking emergency medical attention is crucial when symptoms such as severe pain, dizziness, weakness, or rapid breathing arise.
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