Jinja, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | European tourists have undertaken the construction of a modern orthopedic ward at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. The 64-bed capacity ward is 80% complete and is set to be commissioned within the next two months.
Valued at Shillings 900 million, the ward aims to alleviate congestion in the existing facility, which only accommodates 24 beds. In addition to expanding capacity, the new ward includes special rooms for children to prevent their mingling with adult patients.
Upon completion, it will be equipped with specialized beds and mattresses for patients with disabilities, enhancing their access to quality healthcare. Furthermore, the ward features isolation rooms to facilitate comprehensive orthopedic care for patients with contagious diseases alongside their routine medical treatments.
The initiative stemmed from a group of European tourists, led by Samuel Leads, who embarked on an adventurous expedition along the River Nile, exploring key spots such as Itanda Falls and Busowoko Falls. Following their journey, they resolved to allocate part of their trip’s savings to a social corporate responsibility project along the river.
After researching various facilities, their guides recommended Jinja Hospital. Upon visiting the orthopedic ward, located approximately 10 meters from the administration block, they were dismayed by the overcrowding and stories of patients being discharged prematurely due to limited space.
Promptly engaging with hospital administrators, they facilitated the necessary paperwork and broke ground for the orthopedic ward before the expiration of their visas. Alfred Yayi, the hospital director, expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasizing the relief it brings to patients who will now enjoy increased privacy and more quality time with healthcare workers.
With the capacity set to rise to 98 beds, Yayi anticipates that more patients will access specialized healthcare services at the hospital. He also highlighted Jinja’s strategic location along the Eastern corridor, which witnesses heavy traffic flow and frequent accidents. The expanded space will help save lives by reducing the need for referrals to other hospitals.
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