The Bamenda Regional Hospital has recorded a significant increase in key medical activities over the past three quarters, even as it continues to grapple with funding shortages, staff gaps, and frequent equipment breakdowns.
Presenting the hospital’s quarterly report during the just-ended management committee session, Director Dr. Nsame Denis revealed that new consultations, admissions, deliveries, surgeries, and blood transfusions have all increased. He also noted a rise in emergency cases linked to road traffic accidents, dog and snake bites.
Malaria, gastritis, road accidents, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia topped the list of illnesses treated, while the leading causes of death remained sepsis, stroke, cancer, and heart and kidney diseases. The hospital’s Universal Health Coverage programme, he said, continues to operate actively, providing hundreds of cesarean sections, dialysis sessions, and HIV services.
In terms of infrastructure, Dr. Nsame Denis highlighted ongoing renovation works at the Eye Unit, the construction of an oxygen filling station and a second water tower, and the acquisition of vital medical equipment including patient monitors, defibrillators, and infant warmers.
However, the hospital faces major challenges, including a critical shortage of medical staff, damaged equipment due to voltage fluctuations, and rising fuel costs for its standby generators. The unpaid subsidies under the Performance-Based Financing scheme have reached 82 million FCFA, while unpaid patient bills dating back to 2020 amount to over 250 million FCFA.
Dr. Nsame Denis appealed for support to sustain the hospital’s operations, pledging continued efforts to improve patient care and complete ongoing rehabilitation projects.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Photo credits: NRH
