Leaders in Ibanda District have raised concerns over delayed collection of medical waste at Ruhoko Health Centre IV, warning that the situation is affecting sanitation standards and service delivery at the facility.
The concern was highlighted on Monday by the Ruhoko Health Centre IV In-charge, Dr Peter Rwambuka, during a district stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Office of the Western Regional Resident Commissioner at the district headquarters.
Dr Rwambuka said the health facility continues to face challenges in managing medical waste because the responsible regional disposal team does not collect it on time.
“We are experiencing delays in the collection of medical waste, yet the facility depends on the regional team responsible for disposal. This affects sanitation and creates challenges in maintaining a clean and safe environment for both patients and health workers,” Dr Rwambuka said.
He appealed to relevant authorities to intervene and ensure timely collection of waste to improve sanitation and support effective healthcare service delivery.
“We call upon the responsible authorities to strengthen the waste collection system and ensure regular disposal so that health facilities can operate in a clean and healthy environment,” he added.
Health officials note that proper waste management remains a key component in maintaining public health standards and preventing the spread of infections in healthcare facilities.
Waste management in Ugandan health facilities is guided by Ministry of Health regulations, which require proper segregation, safe handling, collection, transportation and disposal of clinical waste.
District stakeholders acknowledged the concern and called for coordinated action among responsible agencies to safeguard public health and maintain quality healthcare services.