MBARARA CITY – Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital [MRRH] recently received a generous donation of vital medical equipment from the Hal Tilbury family of San Diego, USA. The contribution includes a new anaesthesia machine, an operating bed, and other essential items valued at over Shs 200 million. This marks the second donation from the family within two years, underscoring their ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the region.
Impact of the donation
The new anaesthesia machine represents a significant upgrade to the hospital’s resources.
Halson Kagure, the hospital’s spokesperson, described the equipment as “top-notch,” highlighting its capability not only to deliver anaesthesia and oxygen but also to monitor patients’ vital signs during complex surgical procedures.
This advanced technology will serve a dual purpose: improving patient care and supporting the training of future medical professionals. The machine will be utilised in training students from Mbarara University of Science and Technology [MUST] and other affiliated institutions, equipping them with the skills needed to operate modern medical devices.
Dr Deus Twesigye, Acting Hospital Director, explained that the donation followed a visit from the Tilbury family in October 2024. Impressed by the dedication of hospital staff but concerned about the reliance on manual methods during operations, the family pledged to provide the state-of-the-art equipment. The new machine is especially vital to the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department, where it will help save the lives of mothers and babies.
A hospital under immense pressure
MRRH serves as a regional centre for medical care, catering to a population of five million people and receiving referrals from across the Ankole region as well as neighbouring countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. It is the only regional referral hospital in Uganda designated as a “centre of excellence” for specialised services.
Despite performing a high volume of surgical procedures, MRRH faces significant challenges, including understaffing and shortages of medical supplies.
Dr Musa Kayondo, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, revealed that his department delivers approximately 10,000 women annually, half of whom require Caesarean sections. Many cases are complex and referred from other facilities, highlighting the urgent need for advanced equipment.
“We deliver 10,000 women every year in this hospital, with half undergoing Caesarean sections,” Kayondo said. “Most of these are complicated cases referred to MRRH from other hospitals.”
Call for continued support
Hospital officials have expressed profound gratitude to the Tilbury family for their generosity. Dr Twesigye emphasised the importance of maintaining the new equipment, noting its delicacy and the cost of servicing. He urged hospital staff to ensure the machines remain in optimal working condition to maximise their lifespan and benefit.
Kagure appealed to the government and other well-wishers for continued support, pointing out that the hospital’s high number of referrals often overstretches its limited resources. He noted that the Ministry of Health has pledged additional anaesthesia machines and operating tables, while the World Bank has committed funds to equip the new neonatal intensive care unit [NICU].
This donation from the Tilbury family exemplifies the impact of international collaboration in improving healthcare, providing a crucial boost to a hospital serving a vast and diverse population.
https://thecooperator.news/understaffing-cripples-neonatal-care-unit-at-mbarara-hospital/
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