BOMU HOSPITAL

A Symphony of healing: Bomu Hospital’s triumphant journey of health, hope, and humanity

Nestled amidst the vibrant landscapes of Mombasa County, an extraordinary beacon of healthcare brilliance rises, infusing the air with an aura of promise. Dr. Aabid Ahmed, the visionary force and Chief Executive Officer of Bomu Hospital, exudes a passion that electrifies the room as he paints a vivid tapestry of the hospital’s remarkable journey – one that has transcended boundaries, touched lives, and woven together the threads of health, hope, and humanity.

“Health, hope, and humanity,” Dr. Ahmed declares, the words imbued with a weight of purpose. “It’s more than a philosophy; it’s the very essence of Bomu Hospital.” With infectious zeal, he unravels the hospital’s multifaceted mission, a symphony conducted with precision and compassion.

Bomu Hospital stands as a paragon of collaboration, bridging the chasm in healthcare provision across three counties – Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale. The heart of their success lies in a symbiotic dance with the county governments. “A partnership of unwavering strength,” Dr. Ahmed affirms, “wherein we share expertise, guidance, and support. Together, we navigate uncharted territories, filling the gaps that emerge.”

In the heart of Mombasa County, Bomu thrives as a testament to this alliance, fortified by the health department’s unwavering dedication. “Technical supervision, guidance, training – these threads weave a safety net that envelops every department, every corner of Bomu,” Dr. Ahmed explains, his eyes alight with pride.

But it is not a one-way current of aid; it’s a river flowing both ways. “A private-public partnership,” Dr. Ahmed emphasizes, “where we uplift the county in its times of need, a beacon of support echoing through the fabric of healthcare provision.”

Within the hallowed walls of Bomu, the philosophy of “health, hope, and humanity” resounds with each heartbeat. “Health,” Dr. Ahmed affirms, “is our foundation.” From humble origins as a dispensary, Bomu has bloomed into a stronghold of tertiary healthcare, a sanctuary where the underserved and underprivileged find solace. “People travel from distant lands,” he shares, “seeking the embrace of Bomu’s healing touch.”

The symphony crescendos into the next movement: “hope.” Dr. Ahmed’s eyes soften as he unveils Bomu’s commitment to the HIV-positive population. “More than 26,000 souls find solace here,” he whispers, the weight of responsibility etched upon his features. Bomu stands tall as the largest NGO, a guardian of care and treatment, kindling flames of hope that burn brighter with each passing day.

Yet, hope knows no boundaries. Through partnerships with the Fistula Foundation and Smile Train, Bomu’s reach stretches beyond affliction to transformation. “We mend bodies and spirits,” Dr. Ahmed shares. “Fistula repairs, cleft lip and palate surgeries – a symphony of restoration that reverberates through smiles and renewed dreams.”

The final note resounds – “humanity.” In Dr. Ahmed’s words, it is “the heartbeat of Bomu.” A cascade of programs under this banner ignites rays of compassion – each program a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. “We kindle flames of hope,” Dr. Ahmed avers, “guiding our patients towards a brighter tomorrow.”

 

Bomu Hospital’s solid commitment to dignity and care

“We believe that every patient, regardless,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice is unwavering, “every human being, regardless of their socioeconomic status, has a right to a dignified life.” His eyes blaze with conviction as if challenging the world to embrace this fundamental truth. “Quality healthcare services,” he continues, “and a dignified death as well.” The room seems to hush, acknowledging the taboo topic that Dr. Ahmed fearlessly addresses – the cycle of life that demands respect and compassion.

With a gentle cadence, Dr. Ahmed leads us deeper into Bomu’s ethos. “It’s about providing patients the dignity they deserve,” he declares, his words echoing off the walls, “regardless of their socioeconomic status.” The promise is clear – within Bomu’s embrace, privilege and poverty stand as equals, bowing to the sanctity of human rights.

“In Bomu, you will get the same level of dignity,” his gaze pierces through the mundane, “that you are entitled to as of right because you are a human being.” It’s an anthem of equality, a reminder that the threads of humanity bind us all. The room seems to breathe with these words, a shared exhale of recognition.

“Treating everybody with a smile again,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice softens, the corners of his lips curling into a genuine smile, “regardless of your medical condition, regardless of your socioeconomic background.” Here, compassion is the currency, and empathy flows freely. “Not turning anyone away,” his words resonate like a vow, “for as long as we can provide that service, we will provide that service to the patient.”

As we journey deeper into the narrative, Dr. Ahmed’s vision unfurls like a vast tapestry of hope. “To replicate the Bomu model,” he shares, “to take Bomu to many places.” The dream takes shape – Bomu’s legacy, like a benevolent tide, is set to wash over distant shores. “A Bomu along the entire coastline,” he envisions, his eyes alight with determination.

In the last two years, the dream took root, blossoming into reality. “Shungwaya Health Access Limited,” Dr. Ahmed announces, “an independent unit born from a partnership with Safari Doctors.” The symphony expands, notes of progress and innovation harmonizing with Bomu’s enduring melody.

“We are opening first a small level two medical center in Lamu,” Dr. Ahmed’s excitement is palpable, “and thereafter, a level four hospital.” The tale of Bomu unfolds beyond Mombasa’s borders, leaving a trail of compassion along the coastline. “Our vision, our dream,” he declares, “is to replicate the Bomu philosophy and, God willing, take it outside of the coastal region.”

Dr. Aabid Ahmed’s words linger, like a gentle breeze carrying whispers of change. In Bomu Hospital, virtues and ethos converge, transcending boundaries and inspiring a world where dignity, care, and compassion reign supreme.

A healing odyssey: Bomu Hospital’s journey through care and compassion

“In terms of services, Bomu provides primary healthcare services, prevention services, all the way to tertiary-level treatment services,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice resonates with a sense of purpose, an orchestra of commitment and capability. The hospital’s offerings span the spectrum, from nurturing wellness to tackling complex medical challenges, a testament to their unyielding resolve to stand by their patients.

“We have full-fledged operating theatres where we conduct major orthopedic surgeries, where we conduct all kinds of surgeries,” he declares, his words painting a vivid picture of a bustling hub of healing hands. Yet, he is quick to acknowledge their boundaries, a line drawn not out of limitation, but out of a profound understanding of their strengths. “We don’t conduct, for example, neurosurgery,” he confides, his humility shining through. “Because that’s where we have drawn our line… at what point we need to refer the patient.”

The heart of Bomu’s empire beats in Changamwe, where the main hospital stands tall. “The centers are level three B between level three A and three B,” Dr. Ahmed explains, unveiling the intricate tiers of care that grace their centers. From the gentle embrace of outpatient services to the nurturing haven of daycare, Bomu’s centers are a testament to their dedication to every facet of well-being.

The tapestry of Bomu’s services is woven with a thread of focused determination. “Our focus remains primary healthcare services, prevention services, and treatment services up to level three,” Dr. Ahmed shares, his voice alive with purpose. The hospital’s commitment to its community extends beyond medical realms, encompassing theater, maternity, and even mortuary services, forming a mosaic of care that wraps around every aspect of life.

The heartbeat of Bomu’s success lies in their carefully crafted service provision model, a symphony conducted across their various centers. “In all our centers, we replicate similar kinds of services,” Dr. Ahmed affirms. The intricacy of their care extends to centers with limited hours, where they embrace patients with open arms, offering vital treatments like chemotherapy and blood transfusions. “So that’s the model,” he states, a crescendo of care reverberating through his words.

Dr. Ahmed’s strategic acumen shines as he divulges their evolution strategy, a dance between progress and preservation. “When we feel that our center has now reached a level where it can move from level two A to two B, then we upgrade the center,” he shares, his wisdom a guiding light. Their ascent is deliberate, mindful of the delicate balance between growth and the unwavering quality that defines them.

“Yet, from our headquarters, we want to continue monitoring the service provision,” he asserts, a guardian of excellence. This vigilance isn’t confined to Mombasa’s borders; it extends to the enchanting island of Lamu, where a new chapter of Bomu’s saga is unfolding. Dr. Ahmed’s eyes shimmer with determination as he envisions the future, speaking of a dream to grow into a level four healthcare facility. A partnership with Safari Doctors promises a different approach, a tapestry of collaboration woven with care.

Bomu’s odyssey: A journey of healing and hope

Bomu started as Mkomani Clinic Society in the year 1979,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice carries the weight of history, a tale of humble beginnings that would shape the future of healthcare in the region. “It started as a small two-roomed outpatient clinic,” he reminisces, a stark contrast to the multi-faceted institution that Bomu is today. In those early days, the clinic was more than a medical haven; it was a sanctuary of compassion where patients received care, medicine, and treatment for free.

The narrative takes a turn, revealing a realization that life’s most precious gifts often come with a nominal cost. “With time, there came a realization that free treatment may not always be appreciated,” Dr. Ahmed explains, unveiling a transition towards a model that upheld the value of healthcare while maintaining an aura of compassion. The small fee charged to patients was a testament to the sanctity of care.

As the story weaves its way through the annals of time, a portrait emerges of growth and adaptation. “In 1982, there was a branch that was opened up in Voi,” Dr. Ahmed continues, painting a picture of expansion beyond the shores of Mombasa. This growth was a precursor to an intriguing transformation in 1986, where the Changamwe center blossomed into the headquarters, becoming the heartbeat of Bomu’s existence.

The journey then enters a phase of strategic partnerships that would shape Bomu’s destiny. “The Planned Parenthood Federation gave us a small grant,” Dr. Ahmed reveals, describing a pivotal moment that heralded the era of reproductive health. It was a time of challenge and controversy, as Bomu navigated uncharted waters. The program was a resounding success, attracting recognition and donors alike.

The narrative takes a decisive turn, as HIV emerges as a formidable force, reshaping the focus of healthcare. “When HIV came into the field, then the focus also changed from reproductive health to HIV,” Dr. Ahmed reveals, his words echoing the global shift in healthcare priorities. Bomu’s response to the pandemic was marked by a series of collaborations that brought forth New York University’s partnership and funding, elevating their HIV program.

Yet, Bomu’s journey was far from linear. The challenge of addressing HIV went beyond medical boundaries. “We had culture, religion, tradition, stigma, society to face,” Dr. Ahmed recounts, revealing the multifaceted battle that unfolded. But amidst the shadows of stigma, Bomu’s commitment to care prevailed. The HIV program grew, fostering an environment where education and understanding triumphed over ignorance.

As the years rolled on, Bomu’s reach expanded beyond the boundaries of Mombasa. “In 2009, for the first time, we crossed the ferry,” Dr. Ahmed’s words reverberate with significance as the story journeys to new locations. Centers sprouted in Likoni, Mariakani, Timboni, Ukunda, and Old Town, each a testament to Bomu’s enduring commitment to serving diverse communities.

The crescendo of the narrative arrives in 2011, as Bomu metamorphoses into a full-fledged hospital. “We upgraded ourselves,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice holds a sense of triumph, underscoring Bomu’s relentless pursuit of excellence. From inpatient services to surgical units, Bomu Hospital emerged as a comprehensive healthcare institution.

As the story reaches its current chapter, Dr. Ahmed’s words resonate with a sense of accomplishment. “Bomu has grown from that one two-roomed facility to what it is now,” he states, his voice carrying the echoes of thousands of lives transformed by Bomu’s unwavering commitment.

It’s Bomu’s dream to have a Bomu along the coastal line in every suburb and peri-urban region.

Dr. Aabid Ahmed – Chief Executive Officer, Bomu Hospital.

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Bomu Hospital’s odyssey of innovation and access

Dr. Ahmed’s eyes gleam with pride as he takes us on a journey through innovation. “Yes, we have upgraded our surgical unit,” he proclaims, his voice laced with the thrill of progress. The hospital’s corridors now hum with the artistry of laparoscopic surgeries, a cutting-edge addition that stands as a testament to Bomu’s unwavering commitment to advancement.

“We now provide laparoscopic services in our institution,” Dr. Ahmed reveals, the words rich with triumph. The once-conventional theaters have evolved into theaters of innovation, where skilled hands wield precision instruments to usher in a new era of surgical excellence. “So that makes us very happy,” he adds.

But the symphony of transformation doesn’t end there. Dr. Ahmed’s words weave a tapestry of expanded possibilities. “In addition to that, in our specialized clinics, we now have a psychiatrist, we have a psych, we have ENT specialists, and we have skin specialists as well who visit our hospital as consultants.” The hospital’s embrace now extends to encompass not just the physical ailments, but the intricate tapestry of the mind and soul, a testament to Bomu’s dedication to holistic well-being.

A journey beyond the hospital’s walls reveals a landscape rich with challenges and opportunities. “We have several healthcare issues,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice carries a weight of understanding, a reflection of the region’s struggles. “Access to quality healthcare is still an issue,” he states, his words echoing the reality faced by many. The road to well-being is often marked by hurdles, a journey Bomu Hospital is determined to navigate.

Dr. Ahmed’s eyes light up with a dream, a vision of hope that stretches along the coastal line. “It’s Bomu’s dream to have a Bomu along the coastal line in every suburb and peri-urban region,” he passionately declares. The dream is one of accessibility, of ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of health and wellness. It’s a dream born from a profound understanding of the limitations and challenges even the government faces in its quest to bring healthcare to the grassroots.

Bomu Hospital’s quest for access and advocacy

“I feel that’s where the NGO sector would come in and partner with the government,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice is imbued with a sense of urgency, a call to arms to bridge the gaps that loom large. “Access to quality healthcare is a serious concern in our region,” he confesses, a weighty truth that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. His gaze turns to the women, the mothers burdened by preventable conditions, a poignant reminder of the journey still left to traverse.

The corridors of Bomu Hospital reverberate with stories of patients bearing burdens they shouldn’t have to. “We have excess issues,” Dr. Ahmed laments, his words echoing through the sterile halls. “The hospital’s walls have witnessed the arrival of patients carrying the weight of advanced diseases, diseases that could have been intercepted, redirected, with earlier intervention,” the doctor’s voice resonates with frustration, but beneath it, an undertone of determination threads through.

“The government is really doing its best in putting up dispensaries in many areas,” Dr. Ahmed acknowledges, his words a nod to the efforts on the grand stage. Yet, in the coastal region, challenges persist like shadows cast by the sun. “Excess is an issue,” he states, a truth that cannot be denied. But beyond the veil of excess lies a deeper struggle, one entrenched in stigma and silence. “Stigma, discrimination, and disclosure issues,” he lists them with a sigh, a litany of barriers that keeps health conditions shrouded in secrecy.

The story takes a somber twist as Dr. Ahmed recounts the shades of the pandemic that enveloped the globe. “People did not want to disclose because they thought it was a crime to be infected with COVID,” he reflects, his words a mirror to the universal hesitance that clouded a world gripped by uncertainty. The battle, it seems, is not just against diseases, but against the very misconceptions that render them taboo.

“From my angle, I see these two as a major challenge in terms of policies,” Dr. Ahmed’s words cut through the fog of complexity, offering a stark evaluation of the landscape. Yet, amidst the challenges, glimmers of hope abound. He speaks of partnerships forged with local governments, of Mombasa’s collective efforts to shape a healthier future. The inaugural Mombasa Health Research Conference stands as a testament to this commitment, a symposium where minds convened to unravel the enigma of better healthcare.

On the national stage, a grander vision emerges, one of universal healthcare etched into the very fabric of the nation’s aspirations. “The government is also doing a fantastic job in trying to move on with the agenda of universal health care,” Dr. Ahmed commends, his words infused with respect for the larger machinery at work. The canvas is vast, the landscape complex, but with the synergy of public and private sectors, of NGOs, and government, the dream of better healthcare is no longer an ethereal illusion, but a tangible reality on the horizon.

Champions of resilience

Bomu Hospital stands not just as a sanctuary of healing, but as a testament to the indomitable spirit that rises above challenges. Dr. Aabid Ahmed leads us through a chronicle of triumphs and acknowledgments, a tale that mirrors the hospital’s ethos of resilience and innovation.

“We won a lifetime achievement award,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice is a blend of humility and pride, a melody that lingers in the air. His words unveil an accomplishment that echoes through the corridors of time, a Millennium Development Goal realized. It’s a testament to Bomu Hospital’s unwavering dedication, a symphony of purpose that strikes chords beyond medicine.

As the story unfolds, another accolade takes center stage – a PEPFAR hero award bestowed by the US ambassador. “Despite the lockdowns, despite the curfews,” Dr. Ahmed recalls, his words painting a canvas of barriers that tested the hospital’s resilience. But Bomu Hospital, true to its spirit, emerged not just unscathed, but as a beacon of hope. “Not a single HIV patient accessing care at Bomu missed their daily supply of drugs,” he proudly asserts. It’s a triumph of innovation, of swift action in the face of adversity.

Dr. Ahmed’s words take on a fervent energy as he narrates how Bomu Hospital’s team overcame these hurdles. “We came up with innovative ways,” he states, the innovation itself a reflection of their commitment. The hospital’s response was swift, its resolve unwavering, ensuring that every patient continued to receive the care they needed. “Not a single patient missed their medication,” he proclaims, the words echoing with the impact of a victory cry.

The recognition by the US ambassador, the PEPFAR hero award, was more than just an accolade; it was a declaration of Bomu Hospital’s frontline heroism. “He called us a ‘hero’,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice holds a touch of reverence, a badge of honor earned through dedication and courage.

The story takes a surprising turn as Dr. Ahmed unveils another facet of Bomu Hospital’s journey – recognition by the Kenya Revenue Authority. “We have been recognized as a master very diligent in meeting deadlines, in paying all the tax obligations in the country,” he shares, the words a testament to the hospital’s commitment not just to healthcare, but to every aspect of responsibility.

In the journey of recognition, Dr. Ahmed finds a profound truth – that acknowledgment doesn’t merely bring joy; it ignites the spirit to achieve more. “A little bit of recognition by an independent body not only makes you happy, but it raises your morale,” he reflects, his words echoing the power of external validation. The accolades, he explains, aren’t just for him; they infuse the entire staff with renewed vigor. “It’s very helpful to then take us to the next level.”

Charting technological frontiers: Bomu Hospital’s odyssey of innovation

“In Bomu, we ensure that we are at par, if not leading in technology,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice resonates with the enthusiasm of a pioneer. The hospital’s journey into the digital realm is profound and far-reaching, with connectivity forming the very lifeblood of its operations. “All our sites, for example, are connected to our servers at the headquarters,” he explains. It’s a symphony of electronic harmony, where data flows seamlessly, shaping the very essence of patient care.

“We run an electronic medical record system,” Dr. Ahmed’s words paint a vivid picture of a paperless revolution. The hospital’s records are no longer confined to physical pages; they reside in the ethereal embrace of technology. Yet, amidst the digital transformation, a commitment to privacy stands strong. “We run a health information system,” he adds, highlighting the delicate balance between progress and protection. Every keystroke adheres to the Data Protection Act, safeguarding patient confidentiality in the digital age.

The hospital’s digital canvas is vast, extending across branches and satellite units. “We can track what is happening in all our branches and all our satellite units with the click of a button,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice is laced with pride. It’s a tapestry of technology that brings insights and empowerment, a testament to the role technology plays in shaping Bomu Hospital’s journey.

Embracing technology isn’t just a trend for Bomu Hospital; it’s an investment, a conscious choice to stride confidently into the future. “It’s a huge investment that we have to make time and again to upgrade ourselves,” Dr. Ahmed acknowledges. Yet, in the same breath, he underscores the wisdom behind this investment. It’s an investment that yields dividends of efficiency, insight, and the ability to adapt to the winds of change.

The story takes an intriguing turn as Dr. Ahmed delves into “disruptive technologies.” His tone shifts, embracing a nuanced perspective. “There are some technologies that may seem not conducive to the industry, but they’re helpful,” he states, challenging conventional notions. He cites the example of COVID-19 testing – a technology that transformed the landscape of healthcare, changing perceptions and lives. “Now even for HIV, there is self-testing for HIV,” he adds, underscoring the breadth of technology’s impact.

The crux lies in purpose and direction. “The important thing is to make sure that technology is used in the right direction,” Dr. Ahmed asserts, a clarion call for responsible innovation. In his eyes, technology isn’t just a tool; it’s a catalyst for progress. “It is used for a meaningful purpose,” he emphasizes, “and it is used to have a positive impact in decision making.” It’s a philosophy that shapes Bomu Hospital’s approach, where every technological stride is a step toward a brighter future.

Beyond Borders: Bomu Hospital’s vision of impact and empowerment

“What are some of the key focus areas of investment and focus on business in the next five years?” The question, like a thread, invites Dr. Ahmed to unravel his vision. His response is swift, firm, and sets the tone for the journey ahead. “One, I wouldn’t call it a business,” he clarifies, his words a declaration of purpose. “We are not in the business. We are a non-governmental organization.” Bomu Hospital’s soul is shaped by more than profit margins; it’s shaped by a mission to heal, uplift, and transform.

“The focus is to try and replicate Bomu philosophy along the entire coastline,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice carries the weight of intention, a vision that goes beyond bricks and mortar. With a sweeping gesture of purpose, he extends that vision further, where the coastal region is not just a boundary, but a stepping stone. “Our focus remains on the suburban, the peri-urban regions where the large cohort of our patients come from.” It’s a statement of commitment to the heart of the community, to the people who depend on Bomu’s embrace.

Dr. Ahmed’s vision extends beyond healthcare’s traditional boundaries, weaving a narrative of empowerment through education. “At the same time, we want to think beyond healthcare and link it, of course, to healthcare. But look at training, because we feel that there is another gap in healthcare training.” His words are laden with wisdom, a recognition of the need to create pathways for the future. It’s a vision that shatters the narrow confines of the hospital walls, expanding into a realm where knowledge and skills flourish.

The story takes a tangible form as Dr. Ahmed paints a picture of the next five years. “One of our ideas in the next five years is to move towards training,” he reveals, a beacon of innovation. The idea unfurls like a tapestry of possibility, where a technical training institute emerges as a hub of transformation. “We can provide basic healthcare training,” he envisions, the walls of Bomu’s centers resonating with the voices of learners, the corridors filled with the echoes of skill-building.

Sustainability, too, is a cornerstone of Bomu’s journey. “Of course, overall, at the back of the mind, the idea still remains that Bomu needs to be sustainable,” Dr. Ahmed affirms, his words echoing the delicate dance between purpose and pragmatism. It’s a dance where financial stability converges with unwavering care, a balance that ensures the continuity of their mission.

In Dr. Ahmed’s eyes, the horizon is painted with more than just medical personnel. “We need to train people into the medical field,” he asserts, his words rich with inclusivity. It’s a field that extends beyond doctors and nurses, encompassing an array of vital roles. “Auxiliary services, physiotherapists, counselors, psychologists, nutritionists,” he enumerates, each role a building block in the edifice of holistic care.

Harmonizing healthcare: Dr. Aabid Ahmed’s vision of holistic healing

“As a leader in the healthcare sector, what would you say about Kenya’s healthcare system?” The question, like a portal, opens a doorway to Dr. Ahmed’s perspective. His voice resonates with satisfaction, a reflection of the strides taken on the path to better healthcare. “We have been focusing in the past on curative services,” he notes, a nod to the historical narrative. But the landscape has shifted, and with it, the very philosophy that underpins care. “I’m very happy to see that we are now trying to understand prevention,” he asserts, his words a tribute to a timeless adage – ‘prevention is better than cure.’

Dr. Ahmed’s tone carries a resonance of hope as he elaborates on this transformation. “We are taking it seriously,” he enthuses, the excitement palpable in his words. The lens has shifted, and prevention has emerged from the shadows, basking in a newfound spotlight. “A lot of focus and energy and resources are being invested in a preventive model,” he adds, painting a picture of a healthcare system that is embracing a comprehensive approach.

Yet, curative services still hold their place. “Of course, the curative services are there,” Dr. Ahmed acknowledges, his words a testament to the duality that defines healthcare. But the conversation takes a poignant turn as he highlights a facet that often remained in the shadows. “I’m happy to see a focus on palliative care services and end-of-life care services,” he says, his voice softening with sincerity. It’s a recognition that extends beyond physical healing, encompassing the entirety of a patient’s journey.

Dr. Ahmed’s narrative flows like a river, touching upon a vision that completes the mosaic of healthcare. “I’m happy to see the direction that we are taking, both in terms of preventive services and in terms of palliative care services,” he states, his words a declaration of a comprehensive, holistic model that Bomu Hospital is championing. It’s a model that defines healthcare not merely as the absence of disease, but as the embodiment of well-being, from prevention to palliation.

The conversation shifts, delving into the complex question of affordability. Dr. Ahmed navigates this intricate terrain with wisdom and candor. “Quality comes with a cost,” he admits, his words a reflection of the reality that healthcare, at its core, is a delicate balance between resources and outcomes.

He presents a vision that goes beyond individual entities, focusing on collaboration. “I feel public-private partnerships are the way to go forward,” he states, his words like a bridge connecting sectors. “We need to join hands, not as competitors, but as collaborators,” he emphasizes, a clarion call for unity in the pursuit of a shared goal.

Bomu Hospital’s unwavering resolve

“So, for an institution such as ours, the major challenge is funding,” Dr. Ahmed’s voice carries a weight of reality, a truth that resonates in every corner of the healthcare landscape. The philosophy it embraces, the model it champions, is built on pillars that demand resources. “People tend to like the philosophy and the model that we run with,” he acknowledges, a testament to the impact of their approach. But as Dr. Ahmed unearths, the path to success isn’t a solitary road; it’s a journey paved with financial challenges.

The hospital’s heartbeat is its staff – the doctors and nurses who form the backbone of care. “You need to pay your doctors, you need to pay your nurses,” Dr. Ahmed’s words highlight a fundamental truth – that healthcare is built on the shoulders of those who provide it. But in a world where quality care is a benchmark, salaries, and standards can’t waver. “You need to be at a level where you do not lower the set salary guidelines,” he asserts.

As the story unfolds, the narrative reveals a paradox. NGOs, like Bomu Hospital, stand on the frontline of care, yet they’re not given a special pass when it comes to the costs involved. “There’s no special priority that NGOs would get in terms of the cost of providing healthcare,” Dr. Ahmed explains, underscoring the challenge they face in maintaining quality without compromising on costs. It’s a delicate balance that requires constant vigilance.

“Our struggle would be to make sure that we try not to turn anyone away,” Dr. Ahmed’s words are steeped in determination, a promise etched in their ethos. But this promise, this commitment to care, isn’t without its costs. “At the same time, provide the quality that private hospitals provide,” he adds, his words echoing the high standards Bomu Hospital upholds. The dichotomy is clear – quality care comes with financial implications.

Yet, amidst the financial maze, Bomu Hospital remains resolute. “For us to continuously look for funding is a challenge,” Dr. Ahmed concedes, his voice a blend of realism and optimism. The cycle of securing funds isn’t just a one-time task; it’s a relentless pursuit, an unending quest to keep the doors of care open. But in that pursuit, there’s an unwavering commitment to their mission, a commitment that transforms every financial challenge into an opportunity to make a difference.

This feature appeared in the June 2022 issue of Healthcare Middle East & Africa. You can read this and the entire magazine HERE

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