Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital Officials have spoken about the increased cases of mental health cases in the country as they have recorded an increase in the number 5% of patients admitted at the centre.
The Executive Director of Butabika Hospital, Juliet Nakku said about 4,198 patients were admitted which is a 5% increase due to the high rate of mental challenges in the community and she calls for additional resources to support the numbers. She said this while appearing before the Health Committee of Parliament to give the Hospital’s 2024 – 2025 ministerial policy statement.
She also added that another area to focus on was the 3,450 patients who attended the Child Mental Health Clinic with a 43% increase.
In the 2024/25 national budget, Butabika Hospital has been allocated Shs22.2 billion. Among this allocation, Shs10.171 billion is designated for non-wage expenditures, while Shs2.5 billion is allocated for development purposes. Despite this allocation, Nakku highlighted the pressing need for additional funds for the recruitment of staff.
Chairing the committee, Charles Ayume emphasized the urgency for the Health Service Commission to expedite the recruitment process for medical workers, particularly after the ban has been lifted. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the allocated funds are effectively utilized before June 30, 2024, to prevent their return to the consolidated fund.
