Uganda Muslim Medical Bureau Urges Quick Licensing for PNFP Sector by UMDPC

In a significant development for healthcare in Uganda, the Uganda Muslim Medical Bureau (UMMB) has recently called upon the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Council (UMDPC) to streamline the licensing process for the Private-Not-For-Profit (PNFP) sector. This proactive initiative highlights the pressing need for efficient regulatory procedures to ensure timely access to quality healthcare services across the nation.

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In the continuous endeavor to improve Ugandan healthcare accessible, the Uganda Muslim Medical Bureau (UMMB) has accomplished a noteworthy advancement. Dr. Ivan Kisuule, the acting registrar of the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners' Council, and Wabusimba Amiri, the advocacy and communications representative, held a productive discussion recently with Muzamiru Kivumbi, the executive secretary of UMMB. This proactive approach is indicative of a promising partnership intended to strengthen the healthcare system in the country.

Uganda Muslim Medical Bureau, a leading organization overseeing and coordinating activities of Muslim-founded private not-for-profit (PNFP) healthcare facilities across Uganda, sought to initiate discussions on potential partnership opportunities with Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Council. As the regulatory authority responsible for licensing private healthcare facilities in the country, Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Council  holds a crucial role in ensuring compliance with professional standards and quality of care.

During the meeting, the representatives from UMMB and Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Council engaged in fruitful dialogue regarding the potential benefits and modalities of collaboration. Both parties recognized the importance of working together to streamline licensing process for PNFP health facilities, Capacity building for healthcare professionals, Joint advocacy and policy development, promotion of quality standards in healthcare and promote adherence to healthcare regulations, and enhance the overall quality of healthcare services provided by UMMB network facilities.

Muzamiru stated, 'Licensing our facilities is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients. It also enhances our ability to provide comprehensive healthcare services across the country.' Amiri added, 'UMMB operates a network of health facilities in both urban and rural areas, and we are committed to providing accessible and quality healthcare to all Ugandans.' 'This meeting will not only streamline our licensing processes but also allow us to tap into the expertise and resources of UMDPC to improve our healthcare delivery and we believe that this meeting will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of the people of Uganda,' said Muzamiru

Muzamiru Kivumbi, reiterated the organization's commitment to upholding Islamic values of compassion, integrity, and excellence in healthcare delivery. He underscored the potential synergies that could arise from a collaborative partnership between UMMB and Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Council, emphasizing the shared goal of advancing healthcare standards and serving the needs of communities across the country.

Dr. Kisuule welcomed UMMB's request and promised to work closely with the organization to facilitate the licensing process. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between regulators and healthcare providers in maintaining high standards of care. 'We appreciate the work UMMB is doing in the health sector, and we are committed to supporting their efforts,' Dr. Kisuule said. He emphasized the significance of regulatory bodies and healthcare organizations collaborating to achieve common goals of improving healthcare access, quality, and patient outcomes across Uganda. 'We commend UMMB for its commitment to providing quality healthcare services and its willingness to comply with the licensing requirements,' he said. The UMDP is mandated to regulate non-governmental health facilities in Uganda, including those operated by UMMB. The licensing process ensures that these facilities meet established standards of patient care, infrastructure, and staffing

The discussion was seen as a significant step towards strengthening the healthcare sector in Uganda. By working together, the two organizations can ensure that private health facilities are operating in a safe and ethical manner, providing essential healthcare services to the population.

Uganda Muslim Medical Bureau, with its extensive network of 76 member health facilities in underserved communities across the country, offering a range of services including primary healthcare, maternal and child health, and specialized care. By obtaining licenses from the UMDP, these facilities can now operate legally and securely, ensuring the well-being of their patients is well-positioned to contribute to the government's goal of universal health coverage. The engagement with UMDP will enable UMMB to expand its reach and provide quality healthcare services to even more people in need.