Masindi Hospital private wing set to begin operations amid opposition

Masindi: The private wing at Masindi General Hospital is set to commence operations within two weeks, despite opposition from some residents and political groups.

Dr. Rogers Musinguzi, the Acting Medical Superintendent at Masindi Hospital, confirmed the development while addressing journalists on Thursday.

He stated that the hospital has already procured essential medical supplies, including drugs, beds, and mattresses, with only minor renovations, such as toilet repairs and room painting, remaining.

“The operationalization of the private wing will help curb cases of extortion. Those who can afford private services will pay officially and receive receipts,” Dr. Musinguzi explained.

He assured the public that the new wing would not affect services at the main hospital, as most general hospitals in Uganda have private wings, in line with Ministry of Health guidelines.

Dr. Musinguzi further noted that a price survey is being conducted to ensure fees remain affordable compared to other private health facilities. Since the private wing will operate within a government hospital, service costs will be subsidized.

Additionally, he revealed that all medical services will be available at the private wing, reducing the need for patient referrals. He also reassured the public that TASO Masindi, currently housed in the designated private wing area, will not be affected, as there are adequate alternative spaces for TASO operations.

Council approves private wing

On February 27, the Masindi District Council passed a resolution to establish the private wing at the hospital. The motion was introduced by Goodman B. Faruk, Chairperson of the Social Services Committee, during a session chaired by Deputy Speaker Godfrey Wobugabe.

Faruk justified the decision by highlighting a benchmarking study at Kiryandongo General Hospital, where a similar private wing had been successfully established.

The study focused on; administrative structure and human resource management, services offered and community impact, financial sustainability and budget mechanisms and challenges faced and solutions implemented.

Faruk emphasized that financial transparency would be maintained, with both internal and external auditors overseeing the accounts of the private wing. He also proposed the formation of a Private Wing Committee, consisting of a financial expert, two departmental heads, and the hospital accountant.

“People should see a difference in the quality of care,” Faruk stated, underscoring the need for high service standards.

Following an inspection, 19 rooms were identified for the private wing, including; 4 self-contained rooms at Serena Ward, 7 rooms in the Pediatric Ward, 2 rooms in the Maternity Ward and 6 rooms in a previously gazetted private wing, formerly occupied by TASO Masindi

Shs10 million has already been secured for the project, and operations are expected to begin by the end of next week.

NUP, residents oppose private wing

Despite government approval, the National Unity Platform (NUP) Masindi Chapter and several residents are opposing the private wing.

NUP Masindi Chairperson Wycliffe Rogers Kasaija argued that since citizens pay heavy taxes, government hospitals should offer free healthcare rather than charge for private services.

“Instead of establishing private wings, the government should invest in better hospital infrastructure, hire more health workers, and ensure adequate drug supply in all public hospitals,” Kasaija stated.

He also expressed concerns that the private wing might reduce service quality in the public wing, forcing financially struggling patients to sell their produce to afford private services.

Additionally, over 50 residents have petitioned Masindi District Council, the LCV Chairman, Members of Parliament, and the Ministry of Health, protesting the move.

At a press briefing at D’Venue Hotel on Friday, lead petitioner Innocent Turyahikayo argued that Masindi Hospital already faces major challenges, including: inadequate staff, dilapidated structures, severe congestion and insufficient drug supplies.

He also questioned the decision to house the private wing in the TASO department, warning that it could disrupt TASO’s vital HIV/AIDS services.

Turyahikayo accused district councilors of failing to consult their constituents, urging the public to hold leaders accountable. He called for increased government funding to expand and modernize the hospital instead of prioritizing a private wing.

“If our MPs fail to raise this matter in Parliament, we will organize a protest march to Parliament,” he warned.

However, some district leaders have backed the private wing but urged caution.

Simon Byaruhanga, the District Male Youth Councilor, supported the project but emphasized that health workers must remain committed to serving the poor.

Robina Katusiime, the District Female Councilor representing PWDs, echoed similar concerns, warning against prioritizing profits over patient care.

Faruk, however, defended the initiative, arguing that the Ministry of Health policy mandates private wings in all general hospitals to improve service delivery.

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