Gulu Hospital Commits to Disciplining Staff Over Negligence Complaints

Authorities at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital have committed to taking action against employees accused of negligence and poor conduct toward patients. This follows complaints from residents about declining care standards, including staff distracted by mobile phones even during emergencies.

At a recent hospital community meeting, patients shared their frustrations. Irene Atim, a mother whose baby received head injury treatment, praised some staff’s professionalism but criticized smartphone use impacting service delivery. She noted nurses often prioritize phones over patients.

Lydia Ayoo recounted bringing her feverish child to the children’s ward, where a nurse ignored her while on her phone and later directed her to a private lab for tests, despite limited funds.

Hospital administrator Walter Oryekwun affirmed that phone use during work hours is prohibited. He mentioned plans to restrict internet access to platforms like WhatsApp and TikTok. The facility has deployed 164 CCTV cameras, biometric checks, and daily registers to fight absenteeism and corruption, with one staffer already suspended without pay.

Hospital board chair Dr. Paul Onek Awil promised improvements within six months after addressing the issues with staff. Dr. Jimmy Opigo from the Ministry of Health encouraged using WhatsApp, X, or toll-free lines for faster reporting of misconduct over outdated suggestion boxes.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)