Uganda Cancer Institute Emerges as Medical Tourism Destination with 20% Foreign Patient Rate
It has been revealed that 20% of patients seeking treatment at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) are from abroad.
While the government has made substantial investments in healthcare, there remains a notable gap in both infrastructure and human resources for the institute to fully position itself as the leading centre of excellence in the region.
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Established in 1967 as a centre for the research and treatment of lymphoma, the Uganda Cancer Institute continues to play a pivotal role as a national and regional centre of excellence.
Dr. Nixon Niyonzima of the Uganda Cancer Institute emphasized the institute's growing reputation, stating,
"20% of patients at the Uganda Cancer Institute come from other countries."
Experts estimate an annual cancer incidence of over 34,000 new cases in Uganda, with 8,000 individuals receiving treatment at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
Dr. Niyonzima highlighted the existing gap in the institute's resource envelope, emphasizing the need for further development and capacity-building efforts to meet the growing demand for cancer care.
Dr Charles Ayume, Chairperson of the Parliament Health Committee, echoed the urgency for Uganda to position itself as the region's center of excellence in cancer care.
"There is an urgent need for further development and capacity-building efforts to meet the growing demand for cancer care within the country and attract patients from neighbouring nations," Dr Ayume stated.
According to data from the Uganda Cancer Institute, cancer affects all age groups, with children comprising up to 40% of new cases.
The institute receives an average of 8,000 cases annually, with a significant portion being children.
Even though many Ugandans still seek treatment abroad, there is a growing trend of patients, especially elites, accessing cancer care within the country.
This shift underscores the improving quality and accessibility of healthcare services at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
The Uganda Cancer Institute is key to further solidify its reputation as a leading destination for cancer treatment, attracting patients from both within the country and abroad.
