Why Change Matters in the Health Sector: Fort Portal Hospital a Model Referral – Dr. Bahizi

By Stephen Ainganiza Waddell – Communication Officer Kabarole

Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital (Buhinga), once plagued by systemic challenges, is now emerging as a
model referral facility in the Rwenzori region. This transformation is led by
Dr. Bahizi Archbald Newton Sebahire, appointed six months ago to steer reforms in performance, accountability, and innovation.

Key Reforms

  • Strategic performance management plan
  • CCTV installed to monitor staff presence
  • Routine ward rounds & surgical coverage
  • Dismissal of underperforming staff
  • Reduced unnecessary referrals

Impact

Referrals reduced from 442 monthly to only 94 genuine cases.
Complaints of extortion addressed, sanitation improved, and staff accountability restored.
Fort Portal Hospital is now a regional model for integrated health services.

Referral Reduction After Reforms


Leadership in Action

Dr. Bahizi reports for work at 6:00 am and often leaves at midnight.
His reforms include active supervision, real-time CCTV monitoring, and accountability measures.
“We must serve with integrity. As leaders in the health sector, we are here to help—not exploit.”

He also organized the first-ever Annual Joint Review Mission & Regional Performance Conference to align district and national health priorities.

Looking Ahead

Plans are underway to construct a six-storey hospital block, establish the King Oyo Medical Center,
and strengthen blood collection systems.
Community outreach campaigns now focus on HIV prevention, hand washing, nutrition, and NCD awareness.

Key Takeaways

  • Shift from curative to preventive health care
  • Performance-based systems & staff accountability
  • Dismissal of underperforming staff
  • Public health education & outreach campaigns
  • Regional collaboration through joint reviews
  • Lobbying for infrastructure & partner support

“Transformative leadership inspires people to commit deeply to a shared vision and empowers them to act.”

Under Dr. Bahizi’s guidance, Fort Portal Hospital is no longer struggling—
it is now a model of hope and health sector transformation in Uganda.