International Hospital Kampala (IHK)

International Hospital Kampala is Uganda's premiere medical facility. It was founded by Ian Clarke, a doctor from Ireland, who moved to Uganda in the 80's and first set up a rural hospital outside of Kampala. Alexis wanted me to see this facility so that I could familiarize myself with the full spectrum of medical care in the country (we were planning to go to the public hospital as well but ran out of time). I was glad to see this excellent hospital because I am somewhat aware of the other end of the spectrum through my friend, Kim Bouldin Jones, who is working through Medical Facility Aid http://www.medicalfacilityaid.org enhance the level of medical facilities in the developing world.

As I had heard from Kim, Alexis explained to me that in most Ugandan hospitals patients must supply their own linens, food, etc. and relatives are often needed to help in the care because the hospitals are understaffed. Also, it may be that the hospital doesn't stock the medicine needed so you might be given a prescription in the hospital but someone would have to go out to a pharmacy to fill it. Worst of all, conditions in these hospitals are often most unsanitary as even water is not always available.

The situation at the IHK is different as it is a private hospital. The hospital is not as sophisticated as one that you would find in the States. However, the doctors there are excellent, many sophisticated treatments are available and conditions are sanitary-what they lack are certain specialists such as cardiac and renal specialists (any doctor volunteers out there?).

I had the pleasure of touring the hospital with Dr. Andrew, a general family practitioner, on Wednesday. I was most impressed by the facility which is only 5 years old. I saw patients being well attended and a very extensive, orderly and sanitary environment. There is even a helicopter pad for those who need to be air lifted for treatment. IHK is a place where I would be comfortable going for treatment or taking a student for treatment. Additionally, it would be a great place to serve as a volunteer.

Of special note is the beautiful artwork throughout the hospital which make it cheerful and uniquely African. Also, as a funny note, we were joined that day by Edith, a lovely young woman who is one of the social workers who works for Empower African Children. Edith had the hilarious misfortune of leaning into some wet paint which was not marked and well, you see the result above. We told her that she should start a new fashion trend in Uganda with her painted jeans.