At least 10 doctors have been suspended from medical practice in Uganda due to negligence, according to the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council (UMDPC).

Prof Joel Okullo, the chairperson of UMDPC, revealed in a recent interview that the council has intensified efforts to enforce discipline and improve medical training standards.

“Two months ago, disciplinary action was taken against about 10 doctors for negligence,” Prof Okullo stated.

He specified that three doctors from Bugiri, three from clinics in Kamwokya, and several others from different areas were among those suspended.

He added that the duration of the suspensions varied, with some doctors facing a two-year suspension and others just two months.

Prof Okullo highlighted that the council’s work is hampered by financial constraints, receiving only Shs2 billion of the Shs8 billion required annually. Despite these challenges, the UMDPC continues to manage an increasing workload, currently handling 50 active cases.

The discussion took place during the swearing-in of new and continuing members of the medical council in Kampala. Among the members are Dr Henry Mwebesa, Dr Mark Muyanga, and Prof Joseph Kigozi. Outgoing members include Dr Sarah Kiguli and Dr Apollo Epuwatt.

Dr Henry Mwebesa, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry, urged the council to expedite investigations into cases of negligence, emphasizing that such failures can lead to fatalities. Prof Pius Okong from the Health Service Commission also called on the UMDPC to assist the government in addressing issues such as absenteeism and dual employment in public healthcare facilities.