The Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) has unveiled a State-Of-The-Art Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) expected to revolutionize cardiac care in Uganda's healthcare system. Officially commissioned on December 17, 2024, the UGX 7.98 billion facility is the most advanced of its kind in Africa.
Located in Block C of the Mulago Hospital Complex, the Cath Lab will provide minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures for cardiovascular conditions. Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who presided over the launch, described the facility as a “lifeline for thousands of Ugandans.”
“This Cath Lab will ensure that patients no longer have to travel abroad for life-saving heart procedures. It reduces the financial burden on families while enhancing access to high-quality care,” Dr. Aceng said.
A Comprehensive Boost to Cardiac Care
Dr. Omagino O.O. John, Executive Director of the Uganda Heart Institute, underscored the importance of the new Cath Lab in improving cardiac healthcare in Uganda. He highlighted the government’s commitment to world-class healthcare through strategic investments, including the Cath Lab, the restoration of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and the upcoming construction of a new UHI building.
“The new Cath Lab represents a major milestone in strengthening our capacity to provide advanced cardiac care,” Dr. Omagino said. “These investments reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring Ugandans receive high-quality medical services locally.”
The Cath Lab’s installation is part of broader efforts to modernize healthcare infrastructure and reduce reliance on overseas treatment.
Enhancing Cardiac Care Capacity
The new Cath Lab replaces an older version installed in 2012, which performed over 6,000 life-saving procedures before its decommissioning in October 2024. The upgraded facility began operations earlier this month and has already supported nearly 30 complex heart procedures.
The advanced technology is expected to enable UHI to perform over 10,000 procedures during its operational lifespan. These include complex diagnostics, interventional treatments, and emergency cardiac care, significantly reducing the need for overseas referrals.
The old Cath Lab saved Uganda an estimated USD 90 million by conducting procedures locally. With the upgraded facility, savings are projected to reach USD 150 million, further easing the financial strain on patients and the government.
A Milestone for Local Healthcare
Dr. Aceng highlighted the importance of this investment, noting that modernizing healthcare infrastructure is key to reducing Uganda’s reliance on external medical services. “This is a milestone in our commitment to improving healthcare delivery and ensuring no Ugandan is left behind,” she added.
The unveiling of this facility demonstrates Uganda’s strides in healthcare modernization. Alongside plans for a new building and enhanced ICU services, the Cath Lab reflects the country’s vision of accessible, high-quality healthcare for all citizens.
