During a recent health camp at Karwesanga Health Center II in Rubindi Town Council, Kashari North Constituency, local leaders in Mbarara District raised serious concerns about the growing trend of self-medication.
The event, attended by hundreds of residents, shed light on the adverse effects of self-medication in a region where access to proper healthcare services is scarce.
Many residents turned to self-medication as a result of the high costs associated with private healthcare, as observed by Fred Mwesigye, an official in the Ministry of Education and the camp organizer.
Importance of seeking medical advice
Mwesigye expressed worry over the lack of awareness in the community about the dangers of self-medication, emphasizing the need for better education and accessible healthcare services.
The Deputy District Health Officer, Elastus Tugume, highlighted the rise of drug resistance due to improper medication use, urging residents to seek professional medical advice.
Tugume emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before taking any medication, underscoring the risks associated with self-medication.
The health camp emphasized the significance of sanitation in schools to prevent health issues like UTIs among students, emphasizing the responsibility of schools in maintaining hygiene standards.
Call to utilize healthcare services
District Woman MP, Margaret Ayebare Rwebyambu, called for increased government investment in the health sector to address the underlying causes of poor health outcomes.
Rwebyambu stressed the importance of utilizing medical services for proper diagnosis and treatment, urging the community to avoid self-medication.
In response to the concerns raised, the Office of the Resident District Commissioner announced plans to upgrade Health Centre II to Health Centre III, aiming to enhance maternal health services and alleviate pressure on existing facilities.
Despite the challenges faced, local leaders remain optimistic that their advocacy for improved healthcare services will lead to positive changes in safeguarding the health and well-being of all residents in Mbarara District.
