The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has intensified efforts to transform healthcare delivery in Uganda through digital technology by supporting faith-based health facilities with computers, internet connectivity and digital skills training.Through the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund, UCC is working with faith-based medical bureaus to improve access to digital healthcare services, especially in underserved communities where health facilities often face challenges with modern systems and limited resources.Speaking at St. Francis Kijaguzo Health Centre III in Nakaseke District, UCC Project Manager Susan Nakanwagi revealed that 58 faith-based health facilities have so far benefited from the programme, receiving a total of 175 computers and 58 internet routers to support their operations.
Nakanwagi explained that the initiative is designed to reduce dependence on manual paperwork, improve record management and strengthen the efficiency of healthcare services through the adoption of digital systems.Lawrence Kirwana Ssekimpi, the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau Project Coordinator, said faith-based medical organisations remain key partners in Uganda’s healthcare sector, supporting more than 700 health facilities countrywide.
He added that the programme has already equipped over 850 health workers with practical digital skills, bringing the project closer to its target of training 1,000 healthcare workers who will help drive digital transformation within health facilities.At Kijaguzo Health Centre III, clinician Tadeo Musiime noted that the introduction of computers has greatly improved reporting, financial management and the use of electronic health records at the facility.However, health workers highlighted challenges such as inadequate access to computers and expensive internet services, calling for increased investment, better connectivity and more equipment to enable additional faith-based facilities across Uganda to embrace digital healthcare solutions.
