According to the recent Lancet Commission report, only 11 percent of people in Uganda who need palliative care services can access it. This revelation emerged as Uganda observed World Hospice and Palliative Care Day.
Palliative care, a specialized form of medical care, aims to alleviate symptoms and suffering associated with serious illnesses, particularly life-threatening ones.
“It’s disheartening to note that for every population, 1 percent will need palliative care,” said Mark Donald Mwesiga, the Executive Director of the Palliative Care Association of Uganda, during a press briefing at Taibah International School in Bwebajja.
Mwesiga highlighted the current challenge that most Ugandans face, being in their homes and compelled to visit hospitals due to the absence of a structured healthcare system for home care.
He urged the Ministry of Health to integrate home care into healthcare services, emphasizing, “Because home care is essential in a sense that.”
He also stressed the need for increased government funding for palliative care services. While acknowledging the government’s support for oral liquid morphine procurement, Mwesiga called for additional investments to ensure comprehensive palliative care, including essential accompanying medicines.
“Starting now in October, there is a need to improve the resources allocated to healthcare by 2.5 billion. This allocation should be increased by at least 7 percent over time, as the budget is still lacking,” Mwesiga asserted.
Dr. Moses Muwanga, Assistant Commissioner of Clinical Service in charge of palliative care at the Ministry of Health, pointed out the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Uganda.
He highlighted the progress made in expanding palliative care services, with more districts incorporating them into their healthcare structures.
“As the Ministry of Health, we have directed all hospitals to open palliative care services. Palliative care has now been incorporated into the Ministry of Health structures, and positions are being created to be filled by palliative care specialists,” Dr. Muwanga
explained.
Annet Nanyonjo, the head teacher of Taibah International School, emphasized the positive impact of introducing palliative care education to learners. The school has established a compassionate community club, fostering a culture of care and support.
“So when they learn about palliative care, it becomes part of their character, and they can grow up with that sense of responsibility to make people happier,” Nanyonjo concluded.