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Ministry of Health(MOH) in Uganda has made significant efforts to improve the availability and accessibility of ambulances in the country. The Ministry has implemented various initiatives aimed at increasing the number of ambulances, improving their maintenance and operation, and strengthening the capacity of ambulance services.

One of the most significant contributions of the Ministry of Health has been the establishment of the National Ambulance Service (NAS) in 2015. The NAS is a government agency tasked with managing ambulance services in the country and improving the emergency response system. The NAS has been instrumental in improving the availability of ambulances, especially in rural areas, where access to emergency medical services is limited. The NAS has deployed ambulances to various regions across the country, ensuring that patients can access timely and safe transport to healthcare facilities.

To improve the maintenance and operation of ambulances, the Ministry has developed guidelines and standards for ambulance services, including the minimum equipment and medical supplies required for ambulances. The MoH has also provided training and capacity building for ambulance drivers, paramedics, and other staff to improve their skills and knowledge in providing emergency medical services.

Government has also launched a unique initiative – boat ambulances. These are motorized boats that are equipped with medical supplies, including first aid kits, oxygen tanks, and stretchers. The boats are staffed by trained medical personnel, who can provide emergency care for patients while they are being transported to hospitals.

The boat ambulances are a crucial lifeline for communities living on the shores of Lake Victoria, where road access is limited, and the nearest hospitals can be many hours away. The boats can travel quickly and efficiently, cutting down on response times and ensuring that patients receive the care they need as soon as possible. The boats are also used to transport expectant mothers who need to reach hospitals quickly, helping to reduce maternal mortality rates in the region. These include the ambulances on Buvuma and Koome Islands,Kalangala,and other Islands on Victoria and Albert.

These ambulances have advanced life support equipment’s like ventilators and resuscitators that can provide ICU support until the patient gets to the hospital and these are known as Type C.

Recently, Government of Uganda through Ministry of Health with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance purchased a boat Ambulance in western Uganda. This will support patient evacuations from the islands across Kabale and Rubanda districts reducing the mortality rate. This was flagged off by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba in his recent visit to western Uganda

In conclusion, the Ministry of Health has played a critical role in improving the availability and accessibility of ambulances in Uganda. Through initiatives such as the National Ambulance Service, partnerships with development partners and other stakeholders, and the development of guidelines and standards, the MoH has made significant progress in strengthening ambulance services in the country.