NUDIPU and its partners with support from Christian Blind Mission presented a pivotal report on the assessment of government-operated orthopedical workshops to the Ministry of Health. The findings from this comprehensive evaluation highlighted several critical issues:
1. Limited Capacity: There is an insufficient space in government facilities to effectively provide orthopedic services.
2. Outdated Equipment: Many of the tools and equipment in use are dilapidated with no prospects for maintenance, while current resources are largely dependent on donations from well-wishers.
3. Staff Shortages: A significant lack of trained professionals is hampering the delivery of rehabilitation services, prompting many individuals with disabilities to seek care in private clinics.
4. Unregulated Services: Numerous individuals are offering rehabilitation services that remain unrecognized by the Ministry of Health, complicating the ability to ascertain the quality of care provided. This situation risk leading to further secondary disabilities rather than effectively addressing the needs of those requiring rehabilitation.
Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, acknowledged these pressing challenges, particularly the difficulty in securing funding for assistive technology across government hospitals nationwide. He emphasized the urgent need to advocate for improved budgets dedicated to these essential services, urging regional referral hospitals to prioritize the recruitment of rehabilitation specialists in government orthopedic workshops.
Crucially, Dr. Olaro pointed out the necessity for the ministry to map and evaluate all stakeholders providing rehabilitation services, ensuring that the quality of care offered to individuals who need rehabilitation is appropriately assessed.
The insights from the NUDIPU report are invaluable, and Dr. Olaro stressed that these findings must be integrated into the Ministry of Health’s Rehabilitation Strategy.
As NUDIPU, we remain committed to constructive collaboration with relevant stakeholders to enhance service delivery for persons with disabilities. Together, we can work towards improving health outcomes and ensuring that every individual receives the care and support they need.
