The police have designated special registers to capture medical data, which will be shared among institutions in the criminal justice system.
The Uganda Police Force is set to implement a new procedure to screen suspects for HIV, TB, and Malaria before they are detained in police cells. The initiative, funded by the Global Fund, aims to protect detainees from contracting transmittable diseases and improve equitable health access.
Dr. Bernard Ndiwalana, head of clinical services in the Uganda Police Force, says the screening will provide vital information on the health well-being of suspects before detention.
Those found to be infected with HIV will be linked to treatment, while those with malaria will be started on treatment immediately.
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The initiative, part of the “Breaking the Barriers Initiative,” will also help detect TB cases and isolate suspects who test positive to prevent the spread of the disease. The police are working to improve isolation spaces at all police stations to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
Barbara Masinde, the chief state attorney of Makindye and project coordinator, says the project was launched in 2018 following a baseline survey that showed the criminal justice system was infringing on inmates’ right to health. She credits the project for improving access to screening services and medication for inmates.
The police have designated special registers to capture medical data, which will be shared among institutions in the criminal justice system. The initiative has registered progress, with 91% of inmates having access to quality healthcare services. Police officers are being trained to detect and screen suspects early to prevent the spread of diseases.
