This archive report was first published on 13 June 2020.
Published on June 13, 2020, a notice at the gate of the Busia Referral Hospital informed patients of the closure of the renal unit, which was shut down three weeks ago due to a lack of essential supplies.
The hospital's renal unit, theatres, and maternity department have been severely affected by the shortage of essential equipment and supplies, including fluids, sutures, and providone.
According to a notice placed at the gate by Orthopaedic Surgeon Daniel Alushula, the hospital has suspended all operations at the major theatre due to the lack of essential supplies.
“We hereby inform you that we have suspended all operations at the major theatre. This is due to lack of essential supplies: fluids, sutures and providone among others. We shall resume once all essential supplies have been fully restocked,” the notice read.
Another notice, written by Dr. Robai Nalika, informed patients that maternity services had been suspended due to a lack of essential supplies.
Nurses at the hospital described the situation as dire, with some patients being referred to sub-county hospitals instead of the referral hospital.
However, the hospital's outpatient services and immunisation section were still operational during a visit by The Saturday Standard.
Chief Officer in-charge of the Health and Sanitation Isaac Omeri admitted that there was a shortage of essential supplies, but the department had already addressed the matter.
