The government has urged medical doctors to remain patient as it works to address concerns surrounding internship placements, welfare and remuneration.
The assurance was given by the Minister of Health, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, while officiating the sixth graduation ceremony of King Ceasor University in Makindye Division, where 396 students graduated with degrees, certificates and higher certificates.
Baryomunsi acknowledged the critical role played by intern doctors in Uganda’s healthcare system and said the government is reviewing the legal framework to ensure they receive adequate facilitation and fair compensation.
“Intern doctors provide an essential service by treating patients. Government is reviewing the law to ensure they receive the support and remuneration they deserve,” Baryomunsi said.
He also announced plans to deploy medical doctors to all Health Centre III facilities across the country to improve access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities.
The minister further revealed that the government intends to increase the number of accredited internship hospitals to ensure every qualified medical graduate secures placement without unnecessary delays.
Addressing the issue of Ugandans seeking treatment abroad, Baryomunsi expressed optimism that the trend would gradually decline as the country’s health sector continues to improve.
He noted that many of the specialists treating Ugandans overseas are themselves Ugandan doctors, demonstrating the country’s growing medical expertise.
Representing the Prime Minister, Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga, Chancellor of Makerere University and Third Deputy Prime Minister, challenged the graduates to embrace science, innovation and emerging technologies in the delivery of quality healthcare.
“Healthcare professionals must move with the times by embracing technological advancements while maintaining the highest standards of patient care,” Kiyonga said.
He added that science, research and innovation will play a vital role in helping Uganda achieve its target of growing the economy to US$500 billion by 2040.
Meanwhile, King Ceasor University Vice Chancellor Charity Mulenga encouraged the graduates to use innovation to solve community health challenges and embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for improving healthcare delivery rather than viewing it as a threat.
The graduates welcomed the government’s commitment to expanding internship opportunities and ensuring a fair and transparent placement process.
A total of 396 students graduated during the university’s sixth graduation ceremony, comprising 241 male and 155 female graduates.
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