BY STEPHEN OPIO AND KIZITO OBONYO
DOKOLO: As the year draws to a close, the staffs of Awiri Health center II in Dokolo sub county Dokolo district have received high praises from the surrounding community for their tireless efforts in providing quality healthcare services.
Despite the overwhelming workload of 3,028 patients in just two months, the dedicated team of six, including three technical staffs, has managed to maintain an outstanding level of service.
The Outpatient Department (OPD) records for October and November reveal the incredible dedication of the staffs at Awiri Health center II.
However, the staffs have risen to the challenge and have been commended by the community for their commitment to their duties.
Among the patients seeking medical attention at the facility, Malaria tops the list at 62.8%, followed by Cough and Cold at 21.8%.
Other prevalent diseases include Intestinal Walms (HELMINTHS) at 4.9%, Diarrhoea at 3.7%, and UTI at 2.2%.
Despite the high numbers of patients seeking treatment for these diseases, the staffs have been able to effectively manage and treat them.
According to Denis Tapi, the in charge of Awiri Health center II, the facility IPC team has successfully prevented any outbreak of communicable diseases.
He said the OPD utilization has also seen a significant increase, indicating the trust and satisfaction of the community in the services provided.
Other achievements are; the immunization status has also improved, and the number of deliveries at the facility has increased slightly, with hopes for further improvement in the future.
Additionally, the relationship between the facility and the community has been amicable, with no threats to the staffs’ safety.
The facility has also been under effective supervision, and all drugs have been safely stored and dispensed according to guidelines.
Speaking at the end of year party organized by the facility administrators, James Omara, the area LC1 of Akworatora village, where Awiri Health center II is situated, highlighted the exceptional work of the staffs and called for the elevation of the facility to health center III due to the high workloads they handle.
Jimmy Ray Emwaku, the chairperson of the health management committee of a facility narrates the struggles faced by the facility, his voice is filled with determination and hope for a better future.
One of the biggest challenges faced by the facility is the poor infrastructure leading to its premises calling upon the urgent need for the engineering department to pay attention to the road, especially in cases of referrals.
Another pressing issue that Jimmy Ray brings to light is the absence of a land title for the facility.
”Although the process is ongoing, there have been some resistance from certain parties” Emwaku told this publication.
He mentions the incomplete kitchen for maternity, stressing the need for support and lobbying to ensure that mothers receive proper care and nutrition during childbirth.
With only three technical staff members, the workload is disproportionate to the number of patients.
In October alone, the facility registered 1,708 patients, and in November, 1320 patients sought medical assistance.
This alarming ratio calls for immediate attention from the authorities.
“Moreover, the facility lacks adequate pit latrines and shelters for maternity. This situation poses a threat to the health and well-being of both patients and staff members” Emwaku noted.
In addition, the facility is faced with the challenge of limited space for OPD patients and ANC mothers.
Apili Vicky, an expectant mother and a resident of Anangogwec parish said they are facing problem of small space in the ward and inadequate Pit latrine whenever they move to seek medication at Awiri health center II.
