The right to life is not negotiable; medical council needs to crack the whip
The recent revelations by Justice Irene Mulyagonja regarding the abysmal state of Mulago Specialized Hospital shine a glaring light on the systemic failures within our public healthcare system.
Her account—where her husband, John Baptist Kakooza, faced neglect in a facility that is supposed to provide premium care— serves as a wake-up call. This is not just a personal tragedy; it is a national crisis that demands immediate attention and action.
Justice Mulyagonja’s experience is emblematic of a broader issue plaguing public hospitals across the country. Patients, even in private wings where they pay for services, are met with inadequate care, delayed diagnoses, and a shocking lack of basic medical supplies.
The fact that a simple insulin jab could not be administered and essential tests took over 24 hours is unacceptable. The situation is exacerbated by the reality that many high-ranking officials, including government ministers, opt for medical treatment abroad.
This lack of confidence in our healthcare system from those in power sends a dangerous message: that the lives of ordinary citizens are expendable. The Medical Council must act decisively to rein in errant medical officers.
Reports of negligence, where patients are left unattended in recovery rooms and subjected to exorbitant charges for basic services, are alarming. The Council’s inability to effectively supervise and discipline negligent practitioners has resulted in a culture of impunity where patient safety is compromised.
It is imperative that the Medical Council not only enforces strict guidelines but also holds medical professionals accountable for their actions. Lives depend on their vigilance and commitment to ethical standards.
Moreover, the government must prioritize healthcare funding. The budget allocated to public hospitals is woefully inadequate and fails to reflect the needs of a growing population. Investments in healthcare should not be an afterthought; they are essential for the well-being of citizens.
The rising incidence of diseases, particularly cancer, highlights the urgent need for reform. While the Mulago Cancer Institute struggles under the weight of an overwhelming patient load, reports of dubious practices by some specialists raise serious ethical concerns.
Patients should not have to navigate a system that sees their suffering as an opportunity for financial gain. Life is a fundamental right, and the government must recognize that the right to life is sacrosanct.
It is unacceptable for billions to be allocated to security and military endeavors while the basic healthcare needs of citizens remain unmet. The time has come for a complete overhaul of our healthcare system— one that prioritizes the dignity and health of every individual.
Justice Mulyagonja’s voice, though powerful, represents countless others who suffer in silence. We must ensure that our healthcare system reflects the values we hold dear: compassion, integrity, and respect for human life. The citizens of this nation deserve no less.
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