Improving diabetes care in four districts

Area Partner Project responsible Duration Project budget WDF contribution Project number

Uganda St. Raphael of St. Francis' - Nsambya Hospital Dr. S. K. Bahendeka Nov. 2006 - Nov. 2007 USD 668,000 USD 77,100 WDF06-180

Objective

The aim of the project is to contribute to the capacity building of a non-communicable diseases programme in Uganda by conducting a pilot study in four districts of the country.

Expected impact

• 20 diabetes clinics established
• 260 health care providers trained
• Approximately 4,000 people with diabetes educated
• Support groups for diabetes patients established

Results at project completion

• 20 diabetes clinics were established: 5 in Arua, 1 in Amuria, 8 in Kabale and 6 in Wakiso districts. The clinics were equipped with a cupboard, refrigerator for insulin storage, stationary, weighing scales, blood pressure machines, glucose meters, strips, and ophthalmoscope.
• 126 health care professionals were trained; 79 nurses, 23 clinical officers and 14 doctors.
• 4,260 people with diabetes reached with education. 
• Sensitization seminars have been held with community leaders on the burden of diabetes in their area and the need to improve diabetes care by establishing diabetes clinics and support groups.
• A type 1 diabetes support group was established and launched in September 2007. Furthermore, branches of the Uganda Diabetes Association were formed in the pilot districts.
• Several newspapers, radios and TV-stations helped raise awareness with articles and shows about the diabetes burden and the need to take action.
• An ‘Insulin Bank System’ was initiated as a safeguard in case insulin from the government budget is not available. The majority of health facilities have insulin, anti-diabetic and anti-hypertension drugs. In Arua Town, 8 hours drive from Kampala, insulin and other drugs can now be purchased at the joint medical store. 
• Educational material (handbook, posters and a documentary film) have been produced for use in diabetes education.

Additional information on the project can be found here.

This page was last updated 10-29-2008 by sfh.wdf