Kampala: The Health Service Commission in Uganda has introduced a proposal for sector-specific standing orders aimed at accelerating disciplinary actions against health workers implicated in malpractice such as negligence, absenteeism, dual employment, and other misconducts. This initiative seeks to establish a disciplinary framework akin to that of the armed forces.
According to African Press Organization, the Chairperson of the Health Service Commission, Dr. Henry Mwebesa, informed the House Committee on Health that these proposed rules are a result of a presidential directive. The President mandated the establishment of standing orders for the health sector, similar to those in place for the military. Dr. Mwebesa emphasized that while health workers will still adhere to the general standing orders of the Public Service, specific ones will be introduced to address disciplinary matters.
During the introductory meeting with the Health Committee and leaders from national and regional referral hospitals, Dr. Mwebesa pointed out the inefficiencies in the current disciplinary actions under the Public Service procedures. He noted that it takes between six months to a year to discipline a health worker, even in severe cases such as negligence leading to a patient's death. The new standing orders aim to significantly reduce this period, allowing for more immediate action.
The proposed orders will also tackle issues of dual employment, requiring health workers to choose between government service and employment with private or donor-funded institutions. Other offenses, like pursuing further studies without official leave, will also be addressed.
Dr. Mwebesa urged the committee to back plans for establishing an assessment center at Butabika and the hiring of 1,200 health workers as part of the 2026/2027 budget process. Legislators expressed concerns over understaffing and the inability to attract qualified personnel to rural areas.
Hon. Miriam Mukhaye proposed collaboration with health training institutions to identify and recruit competent workers, while Hon. Bernard Otim highlighted the issue of long-term acting positions, emphasizing the need for lawful handling of such roles.
Committee Chairperson Hon. Julius Monday stated that the committee plans to engage with heads of health training institutions to address staffing and recruitment challenges, including projecting the number of health workers to be trained over the next five years and resolving dual employment issues.