Amolatar HCIV receives new theatre equipment

Amolatar | On April 30, 2025, Amolatar Health Centre IV proudly announced the purchase of new medical equipment for its theatre department.

During a briefing with local journalists, District Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Odongo confirmed that the facility had received critical equipment such as a Boyle’s anesthetic machine, a patient monitor, and a portable oxygen cylinder.

These new sets of equipment are expected to significantly improve the center’s ability to perform temporary surgeries while waiting for additional support from the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Odongo expressed optimism about the recent upgrades, emphasizing the significance of these additions in improving patient care.

“The Boyle’s anesthetic machine and patient monitor will play vital roles in ensuring safe anesthesia practices and continuous monitoring during surgical procedures. These innovations mark a significant step forward for our theatre operations,” Dr. Odongo stated.

He emphasized that, while this is a positive development, other pressing needs in the department must be addressed first.

However, Dr. Moses Ekwang, the director of Amolatar Health Center IV, expressed concern about ongoing issues that impede optimal operational capacity.

He emphasized that many of the hospital’s beds are out of date and lack the flexibility needed for a variety of surgical procedures.

He also discussed the problems with a malfunctioning operating lamp, which fails to provide adequate lighting for surgical procedures.

“While we appreciate the new equipment, we cannot overlook these ongoing challenges that affect our ability to provide essential surgical care,” Dr. Ekwang remarked.

Concerns regarding the staffing shortages in the theatre department were also raised during the briefing. A theatre assistant highlighted the impact of inadequate personnel on the quality of service delivery.

In response to these concerns, the district LC5 chairperson Geoffrey Ocen Kiring assured the team that steps are being taken to address the staffing gap.

“We recognize the need for additional personnel, and I assure you that newly recruited staff will be dispatched to Amolatar Health Center IV. We are also planning further recruitment in the upcoming financial year,” Ocen assured.

He also urged hospital administration to make the best use of available staff to ensure that the theatre department runs smoothly.

“It is essential that we maximize the potential of our current workforce as we prepare for incoming personnel,” he added.

Ocen concluded by expressing hope for the resumption of theatre operations at Amolatar Health Center IV. He mentioned that more equipment is anticipated from the Ministry of Health and encouraged the medical team to begin scheduling surgical procedures promptly.

“Our goal is to have both Etam HCIV and Amolatar HCIV operational, providing the necessary services to our communities. We urge the doctors at the facility to resume work in the theatre as soon as possible,” Ocen emphasized.

Although enduring issues need constant attention and solutions, the recent advancements at Amolatar Health Center IV represent a positive step towards improving healthcare delivery in the area.