The District Governor of Lions Clubs International, Allen Tush Naturinda, has urged policymakers to fast-track the establishment of a national health insurance scheme, saying it is critical to ensuring equitable and timely access to healthcare services for all Ugandans.
Naturinda made the remarks during a free medical camp organised by the Entebbe Lions Club at Entebbe Central Clinic, where hundreds of residents turned up for screening and treatment.
“A national health medical insurance scheme will enable all citizens to access medical services in time, reducing the number of preventable diseases affecting Ugandans,” Naturinda said.
“Early access to care is the difference between manageable conditions and life-threatening complications.”
His call comes amid ongoing national debate over expanding health financing mechanisms to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses, which remain a major barrier to care for many households.
Organisers said the overwhelming turnout at the camp underscored the urgent demand for affordable healthcare services.
The outreach provided diabetes screening and management, blood pressure checks, dental examinations and general health education.
Dr Edwin Nuwagaba, President of the Entebbe Lions Club, said the response reflected persistent access challenges within communities.
“The turnout clearly shows the community’s need for accessible medical care, which remains a significant challenge for many Ugandans,” he said.
Health experts at the camp raised concerns over increasing cases of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, as well as eye complications.
They attributed the trend partly to poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles and limited routine health checkups.
“Many of these conditions are preventable or manageable if detected early,” one of the health workers noted, emphasising the importance of community sensitisation and regular screening.
Patients diagnosed with various illnesses received free treatment on site, while those requiring specialised care were referred for further medical attention.
Organisers reported that more than 2,000 residents benefited from the outreach, receiving screening or treatment for conditions including diabetes, hypertension, eye diseases and early childhood cancers.
Naturinda encouraged the public to prioritise routine health assessments, saying delayed treatment often leads to avoidable complications.
“Early diagnosis saves lives. I encourage everyone to seek medical care early rather than waiting until conditions worsen,” he said.
The medical camp formed part of activities marking the District Governor’s official visit to re-energise humanitarian efforts of the Entebbe Lions Club.
During the visit, new members were inducted, a development Naturinda said would strengthen teamwork and expand service delivery in the community.
He reaffirmed that Lions Clubs International remains committed to addressing global challenges such as vision impairment, hunger and environmental conservation through sustainable, community-driven initiatives.
“Our mission is to serve communities and improve lives through sustainable humanitarian initiatives,” he added.