Ibanda health centres get ultrasound scans

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IBANDA - Ishongororo Health Centre IV and Kanyambogo Health Centre III in Ibanda district have received ultrasound machines aimed at improving maternal health and childcare services.

The machine is used during pregnancy to monitor the development of the foetus and for many other uses, including imaging the heart, blood vessels, eyes, thyroid, brain, breasts, abdominal organs, skin and muscles.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund, for every 1,000 live births, at least 63 infants die before their first birthday in Uganda. Many of those deaths come from complications that could have been predicted by ultrasound technology.

While donating the equipment on Friday, May 31, 2024, at an event held to mark the belated International Women’s Day for Ibanda district at Nyakateete Primary School, Jane Bainomugisha, the woman MP Ibanda District, said the machine would increase access to proper maternal and child healthcare.

“It is every mother’s right to access good medical services as she goes through one of the best experiences life has to offer. The donation will save mothers from travelling all the way to referral hospitals for a scan,” Bainomugisha said.

She added that the machines will help in early diagnosis of any complications and thereby help reduce maternal deaths.

According to the World Health Organisation, while motherhood is considered a fulfilling natural experience, a high percentage of women face several challenges that cause them to suffer and, in some cases, others die.

According to the 2020 Unicef report, maternal mortality rates in Uganda remain relatively high at 336 deaths per 100,000 live births.

Globally, medical costs are rapidly rising and healthcare is becoming gradually unaffordable in low-resourced settings.

However, clinical investigations such as ultrasound scan are necessary for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment considering the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This, therefore, calls for affordable imaging technologies, to meet the needs and resources of rural communities.

Minister’s say

State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara, who was the chief guest at the event, cautioned the PDM SACCOS' leaders and parish chiefs against asking for bribes. He advised the residents to always notify the Police so that the corrupt chiefs and leaders can be arrested.

“Don’t argue with them; trick them and we arrest them when they ask for commission,” said the minister. 

“Accept to pay the bribe and tip off the Police so that they are arrested as they receive the money,” he added.

He explained that the Government sends shillings 106 million per parish, of which shillings six million is for administration costs. So, there is no reason for these people to as commissions, he said.