Current Landscape and Challenges of Ultrasound Services in Uganda

Akinyi Kibii Nasio

Faculty of Medicine Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Ultrasound imaging is indispensable in modern healthcare for its non-invasive diagnostic capabilities. However, in Uganda, access to reliable ultrasound services remains challenging due to disparities in accessibility, infrastructure limitations, and financial barriers. This review examines the current landscape and challenges of ultrasound services in Uganda, drawing from recent literature to highlight key issues and propose pathways for improvement. Significant disparities in ultrasound accessibility across Uganda exacerbate healthcare inequalities, stemming from inadequate infrastructure and a scarcity of trained personnel in rural areas. Efforts to enhance accessibility and distribution necessitate expanding infrastructure, improving training programs, and implementing effective maintenance protocols. Collaboration with international organizations is crucial for sustainable improvements in service delivery. Quality assurance in ultrasound services is essential for accurate diagnostics. This review article synthesizes recent literature on ultrasound services in Uganda, focusing on accessibility, quality, and financial barriers, through a systematic review and analysis of relevant studies and reports. Financial accessibility remains a critical barrier, with out-of-pocket expenses hindering access, especially for low-income populations. Addressing these challenges requires healthcare financing reforms and targeted subsidies to reduce financial burdens on patients. Progress has been made, sustaining and improving ultrasound services in Uganda demands comprehensive strategies to enhance accessibility, maintain high standards, and ensure affordability, thereby advancing healthcare equity nationwide.

Keywords: Ultrasound imaging, Healthcare inequalities, Infrastructure development, Quality assurance, financial accessibility.

CITE AS: Akinyi Kibii Nasio (2024). Current Landscape and Challenges of Ultrasound Services in Uganda. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL   JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND   EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES, 5(3):30-32. https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJSES/2024/10.5.330327