The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) has sharply criticised recent inspection methods by the Ministry of Local Government, accusing senior officials of violating patient privacy and undermining due process in public health facilities.
In a statement addressed to Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara and State Minister Justine Nameere, the doctors’ body acknowledged government efforts to tackle corruption and improve service delivery.
However, it warned that current enforcement tactics risk eroding trust within the health system.
“We share your goal of accountability,” UMA said.
“However, we are deeply concerned about the methods employed during recent inspections, including the presence of television cameras in clinical areas and the public interrogation of health workers.”
The association raised alarm over the filming of patients in wards, maternity units, and consultation rooms without consent, describing it as a violation of Uganda’s Patients’ Rights and Responsibilities Charter, the Data Protection and Privacy Act, and constitutional protections on privacy.
“Patients are not exhibits. A hospital is a place of healing, not a spectacle,” the statement read.
UMA also challenged claims of absenteeism arising from surprise inspections, arguing that such accusations often ignore official duty rosters, leave schedules, and on-call arrangements.
It noted that rest periods following night duty, annual leave, and sick leave are legally protected under Uganda’s labour laws.
“Finding a health worker away from their station proves nothing without verification,” the association said, warning against premature conclusions.
The doctors further pointed to systemic challenges within Uganda’s healthcare sector, including severe understaffing and shortages of essential supplies.
According to UMA, public facilities operate at roughly 34 percent of required staffing levels, with diagnostic services and medicine availability also below optimal capacity.
“Where a worker refers a patient due to a stock-out or missing test, that is a systemic failure, not corruption,” it stated.
The association emphasised that due process must be followed in all disciplinary matters, cautioning against arrests or public humiliation without proper investigation through established legal and professional channels.
Among its recommendations, UMA called for an immediate halt to filming in clinical areas, increased government funding for recruitment and medical supplies, and closer coordination between the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Health.
“Accountability and dignity can and must go together,” the statement concluded.