The Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) is a specialized public medical facility established in 1988 for the treatment and management of cardiovascular diseases in Uganda. It operates as a component of Mulago Referral Hospital in Kampala under the Ministry of Health. The institute is located within Mulago National Specialized Hospital and is currently headed by Dr. John Omagino as its Executive Director.
The primary objective of UHI is to provide preventive and clinical cardiovascular services while also conducting research and offering training in cardiovascular science. Its mandate includes delivering specialized cardiovascular healthcare, carrying out research, and providing educational programs in cardiovascular medicine.
UHI offers a comprehensive range of services, including outpatient and inpatient cardiology, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiothoracic surgery, pediatric cardiology, diagnostic laboratory services, advanced imaging, cardiac catheterization, echocardiography, and electrocardiography (ECG). The institute also houses specialized units, such as the coronary care unit and cardiac intensive care unit.
In addition to clinical care, UHI conducts clinical and epidemiological research in collaboration with national and international partners to advance cardiovascular health knowledge. It also provides training and fellowship programs for both local and international healthcare professionals in fields like pediatric cardiology, cardiac surgery, anesthesia, critical care, and cardiac nursing.
The institute runs public awareness programs and campaigns to educate the population on cardiovascular disease prevention, promoting healthy lifestyles that include proper diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
Despite its achievements, UHI faces several challenges, including a shortage of specialized human resources, such as cardiac surgeons and cardiologists, and a high patient burden due to the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases in Uganda. The number of patients continues to grow among both adults and children, yet the high cost of treatment remains a barrier for many. Limited resources, including outdated equipment and insufficient funding for expansion and modernization, further complicate the institute’s efforts.