Abstract
Introduction: This study explored the tackling of Uganda’s medical expenditures abroad, a choice dilemma of going public, private or public-private partnership. The study described the commonest conditions and reasons for referrals abroad, estimated Uganda’s medical expenditures on referrals abroad from the FY 2017/18 to 2023/24. The paper examines the reasons why Government is the most preferred approach in reducing medical expenditures abroad.
Methods: An exploratory, cross-sectional mixed study design was conducted in Uganda. It was carried out from 1 September 2023 to 29 August 2024. Stratified sampling and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 34 participants. Key informant interview media analysis and desk review of data were done. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS version 16.0 and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Ethical considerations were done.
Results: The cost estimated for medical referral by government to other countries in the financial years 2021/2022 to 2023/2024 was Ug Shs. 26,596,082,700 (USD. 7.29 million) covering 399 patients. The highest proportion of patients referred were 41.6% in the FY 2022/2023, and the commonest conditions referred were congenital heart abnormalities and other cardiac conditions at 73.1% followed by the kidney transplant at 9%.
Conclusion: High expenditures on medical referrals abroad lead to a significant flight of forex and referrals abroad largely due to lack of adequate health care services. Government led interventions is the most preferred policy option to reduce Uganda’s high medical expenditures incurred abroad especially on government officials.
Keywords: Medical Tourism, Medical expenditures abroad, health insurance, private-public partnership, Uganda.