ARDC Otuke District Engages Health Workers in High-Level Meeting to Improve Health Service Delivery

Otuke, Uganda – The Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) of Otuke District, Opio Isaac Opeo, held a significant high-level meeting with health workers, particularly the In-Charges of various health facilities across the district, to assess and enhance the delivery of health services. This strategic engagement was aimed at ensuring that the communities within Otuke fully benefit from the healthcare services provided by the government under the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Otuke District is home to 14 health facilities, including one Health Center IV (Orum HC IV), three private health facilities, and several Health Center III facilities. The meeting provided a platform for the In-Charges to discuss challenges, share best practices, and explore strategies to improve health service delivery across the district.

During the meeting, ARDC Opeo emphasized the critical role of the in-charges in overseeing the operations of their respective health facilities. He urged them to take full control and responsibility to ensure that health services are accessible and effective for the entire community. "The NRM Government has established various health facilities across Otuke, and it is the duty of the In-Charges to ensure these facilities serve the people as intended," Opeo stated.

Opeo reiterated the importance of supervision in maintaining quality healthcare services. He highlighted the directives of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who advocates for rigorous supervision to guarantee excellence in service delivery. "Supervision is key to ensuring that our health workers are performing their duties as required. I urge you to adopt regular supervision at every level of service delivery," he stressed.

Quoting a verse from the Bible, Opeo said, "Because of lack of knowledge, my people perish." He explained that this was a reminder to the In-Charges to be well-versed in the operations and management of health services. He also expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his commitment to enhancing health service delivery and for increasing the salaries of health workers through the Ministry of Health, under the leadership of Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, who is also the Woman Member of Parliament for Lira City.

Opeo urged the health workers to prioritize punctuality, time management, and quality in their daily tasks. He also encouraged them to improve their patient management skills to ensure that every patient receives the necessary care when they visit health facilities. Additionally, he advocated for ongoing professional development, recommending that health workers attend refresher courses to build their capacities and maintain confidentiality while handling patients.

The ARDC also raised concerns about the rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the community, urging health workers to engage in community sensitization and health education. "HIV/AIDS is spreading rapidly, and many in the community may not be aware. It is your responsibility to educate the patients and the wider community about this threat," Opeo advised.

He further discouraged absenteeism among health workers, noting that it adversely affects service delivery. To address this, the RDC's office will conduct regular monitoring to ensure that health workers adhere to their duties. Opeo also emphasized the importance of drug auditing and stock management to prevent the theft of medical supplies. He encouraged the proper use of Primary Health Care (PHC) funds and urged In-Charges to supervise critical departments like Maternity and ART clinics to ensure that services are delivered efficiently.

In conclusion, Opeo called on the health workers to remain professional and dedicated in their mission to save lives in Otuke District. He commended President Museveni for prioritizing development through various initiatives, such as the Women’s Support Programs, Youth Livelihood Programs, and Elderly Support Programs, which continue to uplift the lives of Ugandans.