Mbarara Referral hospital sees surge in patients as free surgeries begin
A free surgical camp has commenced at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, drawing large crowds of patients from across the Ankore region and beyond.
The camp offers a wide range of medical services, including surgeries for conditions such as hernias, spinal problems, and congenital defects. Patients of all ages, from children to the elderly, have been flocking to the hospital in hopes of receiving life-saving treatment.
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Halson Kagure, Public Relations Officer at the hospital, explained that two weeks of screenings had already been completed before the surgeries officially began.
"This is an open camp, and each day, our surgeons aim to treat 50 patients. We’ve seen a steady stream of individuals from rural and distant areas arriving for screenings.
Those who undergo surgery will continue receiving their medications even after the camp ends, and specialists will monitor their recovery," Kagure said.
He emphasized that any cases requiring specialized care beyond the capabilities of smaller health centers would be referred to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital for advanced treatment.
For many patients, the free medical camp has been a long-awaited opportunity after years of struggling to access care due to financial constraints.
Clare Namanya, a hernia patient from Kyarwabugunda in Mbarara, expressed relief at finally receiving help. "One of the hardest challenges has been the cost. I couldn’t afford the medical bills, but now I finally have a chance to get treated," she said.
Similarly, Busingye Dina, who had suffered from abnormal growths for years and relied solely on painkillers, shared her gratitude for the camp.
"I had been screened in Kampala before, but the cost of treatment was beyond my reach. When I heard about this free camp, I knew it was my only hope. My financial struggles may have worsened my condition," Dina revealed.
The camp has been a beacon of hope for many who had been enduring pain without access to proper treatment. Kagure encouraged residents to take full advantage of the services being offered, noting that the camp will continue across the 13 districts in the Ankore region.
Even patients from remote areas are being given the opportunity to receive critical care, as the hospital works to ensure no one is left behind.