The Haut-Uele province, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is facing an alarming health crisis, highlighted by the Free Union of Doctors of Congo (SYLIMED). In a memorandum addressed to Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu, SYLIMED reveals a damning reality: the lack of assignment of qualified doctors, despite order numbers obtained two years ago. This situation leaves several villages without competent medical personnel, amplifying the difficulties of accessing health care.
The shortage of doctors is particularly critical in certain health zones of Haut-Uele. For example, the Makoro health zone, with a population of 165,000 inhabitants, would theoretically require 16 doctors to meet the health needs of its community, according to WHO standards. However, the reality is quite different, with a derisory medical presence that seriously compromises the quality and availability of care for the inhabitants of the region.
SYLIMED stresses the urgency of assigning these doctors to make up for the glaring shortage of health professionals. In addition to ensuring continuous care, their presence would allow for the exchange of knowledge and improve patient care. But the problem of staff shortages is not limited to doctors alone: qualified nurses and laboratory technicians are also sorely lacking. In addition, the absence of essential medical equipment, such as radiographers, in public health facilities is making the situation worse, leading to frequent transfers of patients and compromising their care.
Faced with these major public health issues, SYLIMED calls for rapid action by Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu to resolve this health crisis. By assigning these doctors and increasing the number of healthcare workers, it would be possible to significantly improve access to health care in the Haut-Uele province. Furthermore, the modernization and equipment of public medical facilities are also essential to guarantee quality health services to the entire population.
In conclusion, the critical situation in Haut-Uele in terms of shortage of medical personnel highlights major challenges in public health. Urgent and concerted action is necessary to meet the needs of the population and guarantee equitable access to quality care. Let us hope that the authorities concerned will be able to take the necessary measures to improve the health situation in the province.