Acute Surgical Care
Vision and Approach
Surgical disease is one of the most under-addressed health needs in rural Uganda, and it is often the most life-altering to treat. Damico Health's surgical program, led by our Chief of Surgery Dr. Kansiime Erhardt, brings experienced surgeons together with local hospitals to deliver care that changes lives.
We consult year-round and partner with local hospitals, using their operating theaters and bringing in surgeons from the cities to provide surgical care close to the patients who need it. This model strengthens local institutions rather than bypassing them.
Much of our work focuses on hernia repair. Untreated hernias are among the most common causes of bowel obstruction in our patient population, a dangerous and sometimes fatal condition. By performing preventive hernia surgery, we address a serious risk before it becomes an emergency. We also take on significant corrective and reconstructive procedures that meaningfully restore quality of life.
Our data points to something important about access in Uganda: distance is rarely what stops patients from getting care. Cost is. People are willing to travel, sometimes long distances, when they know they can get the care they need. By removing the cost barrier and bringing surgical care to trusted local facilities, we reach patients who would otherwise go without.