Health workers in Mityana District have been warned against extorting money from patients and mismanaging drugs in government health facilities following concerns raised by the State House Health Monitoring Unit.
The warning was issued during a community dialogue held after a two-week inspection of public health facilities across the district, where the monitoring team assessed service delivery, accountability, and the conduct of health workers.
According to Dr. Julian Nabatanzi, the practice of demanding money from patients in government hospitals where services are supposed to be free remains widespread and is undermining healthcare delivery.
“It is unacceptable for health workers to ask for money from patients in public facilities. Anyone found engaging in such acts will be held individually accountable and prosecuted,” Dr Nabatanzi warned.
During the dialogue held at Busimbi Sub-county headquarters in Busimbi Sub-county, residents were given an opportunity to share their experiences, with many accusing health workers of charging illegal fees and neglecting patients, especially in rural areas.
“We go to government hospitals expecting free services, but instead we are asked for money before receiving treatment,” said Harunah Nziza, a local leader.
“Those who cannot pay are often left unattended.”
Residents also raised concerns about absenteeism among health workers, saying it has made access to healthcare more difficult in government facilities.
Mityana District chairperson Joseph Luzige acknowledged the challenges affecting the health sector and pledged action to improve service delivery.
“We are aware that some things have not been going right, especially at the district hospital, but as leaders, we are putting in place measures to address these gaps and improve service delivery,” he said.
The State House Health Monitoring Unit said it will intensify investigations and continue engaging stakeholders to ensure that health services in Mityana District meet acceptable standards.
“We shall not relent in our efforts to restore order and accountability in the health sector. Our goal is to ensure that every Ugandan receives quality and dignified healthcare,” Dr. Nabatanzi emphasized.
Residents welcomed the intervention, expressing hope that it will lead to improved services and help curb corruption in public health facilities.
