Kapchorwa, Uganda
Community Improvement
Education
We support medical education for all levels of medical providers from
prehospital to inpatient. Our training has been in person and remote. In 2023 we had a successful zoom training session with the Helping Babies Breathe program. Our goal is to “train the trainer” – so that our partners on the ground can amplify what they learn to others. Our training focuses on high-impact issues that the community faces – infection reduction, basic lifesaving measures, wound care, women’s health and newborn emergencies are some example.
Medical Outreach
Kaserem Futures supports clinical leaders in the region who are interested in extending care to remote regions of the district, often only accessible by motorbike or on foot. These campaigns include health education and screening, basic antenatal care, vaccinations, and access to basic medical, dental, and eye care.
In the summer of 2023, we were able to host several large-scale outreach events
with US providers present to participate. These events allow patients with limited
access and resources to obtain care and have led to positive changes such as
connecting expected mothers to better quality care and safer delivery and
identification of patients needing surgery. Our colleagues have continued these outreach events on their own, and we are happy to continue to support them.
Microfinance Projects
In 2024 our goal is to kick off our first project of this type. As the tourism industry grows in the Kapchorwa area, we hope to support a women’s group that will produce handmade goods and crafts for sale. Proceeds will support these amazing women and go towards improving women’s healthcare in the district.
Supporting the Kaserem Christian Medical Clinic
Supply procurement to improve capabilities
This clinic is in a position to make a bigger impact as the population grows. We have helped to steadily increase their patient volume through improved practices and funding grants for the purchase of critical supplies. We have been able to help procure critical supplies such as an autoclave, lab supplies, delivery kits, medications and dressings, and exam tables and lights.
Infrastructure
In the Spring of 2024 we were able to help connect filtered water
running into both buildings as well as a shower and modernized toilets. We have
also helped to fix the ceilings, roof, and windows and also helped optimize power at the clinic through the purchase of a generator. As this is a crucial facility for the surrounding community, we want to make it a space that optimal for better patient care and staff comfort.
Supporting the Kapchorwa District Hospital
Partnering for Change
Collaborating with hospital directors and the chief of surgery, we are supporting a quality improvement project to improve surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and address barriers to better post-operative wound care. This project will focus on improving surgical protocols and education programs to improve the quality of wound care being delivered.
Supply Shortages
In 2023 we were able to donate important airway supplies as well as a Bovie cautery pen to the surgical department. In 2024 we are committed to continuing to support the needs of this critical facility.