Karamoja Hospital suspends ambulance services due to lack of funds
St. Kizito Hospital, a vital healthcare facility in Karamoja has suspended its emergency ambulance services due to funding cuts.
The hospital, known for its affordable prices, has been forced to direct clients to Moroto Regional Referral Hospital for ambulance services.
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The hospital administration cited depleted diesel stores caused by financial shortages, making it impossible to execute emergency ambulance calls.
"Due to depleted diesel stores caused by financial shortage emergency ambulance calls cannot be executed from Matany Hospital," the notice issued on June, 28, 2024 read in part.
The suspension has raised concerns among residents, who prefer St. Kizito Hospital for its quality service and low pricing.
"We were told to direct our patients to Moroto Hospital, but it's far and expensive," said Logwe John Pombe, a worried resident of Iriiri Village in Napak district said,
"Mothers requiring emergency C-sections will be the most affected."
Christine Achayo, a resident of Abim District, praised St. Kizito Hospital Matany for its affordable services.
"My mother received comprehensive medical tests and an X-ray scan at a fraction of the cost. I was impressed."
The hospital management warned that the funding shortage may also delay staff salaries.
Br. Gunther Nahrich, the hospital administrator, confirmed the suspension, stating, "We regret the inconvenience, but our hands are tied."
The news has sent shockwaves across the region, with many fearing the impact on emergency healthcare services.
St. Kizito Hospital's suspension of ambulance services has left a critical gap in the region's healthcare system.
