An Evaluation of the Current Elderly Patient Flow within Outpatient Clinics of Kitagata, and Kabale Hospitals Southwestern, Uganda.

Author(s)	Mr. Jackson Selwano Musiime, Francis Kazibwe, Noel Kansiime Kiiza
Country	Uganda
Abstract	This study evaluates the current patient flow system for elderly care within outpatient clinics in Kitagata General Hospital and Kabale Regional Referral Hospital in Southwestern Uganda. As the elderly population grows in Uganda, healthcare systems face increased demand for age-friendly outpatient services. A qualitative exploratory design was employed with a sample of 8 health workers and 42 elderly patients. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document reviews. Findings reveal facility-based challenges such as inadequate staff and poor triage, long wait times, and patient-based challenges including mobility issues and low health literacy. Strategies identified include task shifting, elderly-friendly scheduling, and use of community support systems. Despite these challenges, manifestations of hope exist, including emerging fast-track systems and community health worker support. The study concludes that while systemic barriers persist, adaptive strategies can significantly improve elderly patient flow in outpatient clinics.
Keywords	Elderly Care, Patient Flow System, Outpatient Clinics, Health Care Challenges, Southwestern Uganda.
Field	Biology > Medical / Physiology
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 5, September-October 2025
Published On	2025-10-31
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.59112

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