Lawyer Urges National Health Insurance for Accident Victims

Lawyer Tony Galandi Kiire has called for the establishment of a national health insurance scheme in Uganda to ensure that victims of accidents receive immediate medical attention without facing financial hurdles. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable funding mechanism for emergency care and reduce the strain on healthcare facilities.

Currently, hospitals often bear the significant costs of treating accident victims, especially those brought in by bystanders after incidents like road crashes. Galandi argues that a universal health insurance system, mirroring models in other nations, would allow for prompt treatment irrespective of a victim’s financial status.

His proposal comes at a time when concerns linger about potential repercussions deterring the public from assisting those injured in road accidents. Galandi pointed to protections within Uganda’s Traffic and Road Safety Act, noting that Section 125A mandates that accident victims receive medical treatment without immediate proof of payment until they are stabilized. This legal provision, he believes, should inspire confidence in the public to offer help.

Galandi also addressed the role of “Good Samaritans,” advocating for clearer distinctions between those who help and individuals suspected of causing accidents. He criticized the practice of detaining rescuers, arguing it undermines the spirit of volunteerism. While police may need to gather information, Galandi stressed that Good Samaritans should not be treated as suspects if their sole involvement is assisting an injured person, suggesting they provide a statement and contact details and then be allowed to leave.

He further called for enhanced awareness among police officers regarding the legal safeguards for Good Samaritans, emphasizing that discouraging intervention during emergencies can have dire consequences. The priority, he stated, should be saving lives, with accountability and investigations following later.

This call for improved emergency care financing aligns with existing policy frameworks, including Uganda’s National Emergency Medical Services Policy and the Ministry of Health’s plans for a National Health Insurance Scheme, which acknowledge the necessity of alternative funding for both pre-hospital and hospital emergency services.