By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti District – Soroti Regional Referral Hospital continues to grapple with a host of operational challenges that are affecting service delivery, according to recent assessments by the Health Monitoring Unit and hospital administrators.

During a baraza held at Soroti Sports Ground with stakeholders from across the region, Dr. Warren Namaara, Director of the Health Monitoring Unit, highlighted critical gaps in human resources, infrastructure, medical supplies, and financial management at the hospital.

“The hospital is operating with only 22% of the required staffing, and infrastructure is in poor condition,” Dr. Namaara said. “Bed occupancy has risen to 112%, leaving many patients to lie on the floor, while limited resources and poor management of funds continue to strain the system.”

One of the most shocking findings was a water and sewage bill of over 700 million UGX, suggesting possible mismanagement or bypassing of utility meters. Dr. Namaara urged the hospital administration to investigate and resolve the issue to prevent further misuse of government funds.

Despite these challenges, the audit team praised the pharmacy department for their loyalty and commitment, and acknowledged efforts by hospital staff to reduce extortion cases, including the dismissal of six volunteers involved in such practices.

Watmord Ben, Director of Soroti Regional Referral Hospital, commended staff dedication despite limited resources and infrastructural shortcomings.

“Our surgical team continues to perform remarkably even with limited theatre space. The hospital receives support from teaching institutions, but more investment is needed,” Ben said, adding that a 50-hectare land donation from Soroti University could be used to expand health facilities if adequately funded.

Stakeholders at the meeting emphasized the need for proactive leadership, stronger governance structures, increased staffing, and better resource management to ensure the hospital can meet the growing healthcare demands in the Teso sub-region.

“We do not come to penalize staff but to support them in addressing critical issues,” Dr. Namaara explained. “With coordinated effort and government support, these gaps can be addressed to improve service delivery.”

The report underscores that without urgent intervention in staffing, infrastructure, and financial oversight, Soroti Regional Referral Hospital will continue to struggle to provide essential healthcare services to its patients.