Uganda’s healthcare system is a vibrant mix of public, private, and faith-based institutions, each playing a crucial role in serving a diverse and growing population. From historic national referral centers in Kampala to modern private hospitals and regional referral hubs, Uganda’s top hospitals are recognized for their commitment to quality care, medical innovation, and community outreach. This guide to the best Hospitals in Uganda offers detailed, up-to-date profiles of the nation’s leading institutions, highlighting their specialties, facilities, bed and doctor capacity, and the real patient experiences that shape healthcare in Uganda today.
1. Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Founded in 1913, Mulago National Referral Hospital is Uganda’s largest and most iconic public hospital, located in the heart of Kampala. Over the decades, it has grown from a treatment center for infectious diseases to a world-renowned tertiary care and teaching hospital, closely affiliated with Makerere University. Mulago is the backbone of Uganda’s public healthcare, handling the country’s most complex cases and emergencies, and serving as a training ground for generations of Ugandan doctors and nurses. The hospital is divided into Lower Mulago (900 beds) and Upper Mulago (700 beds), making it the largest hospital in Uganda with a total of 1,600 beds. Its comprehensive services, round-the-clock emergency care, and specialized clinics make it a beacon of hope for millions.
Beds: 1,600
Doctors: 400+ (including specialists, residents, and consultants)
2. Butabika National Referral Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Butabika National Referral Hospital is Uganda’s only national psychiatric referral hospital and the country’s main center for mental health care. Established in 1955, Butabika is a leader in psychiatric treatment, research, and training, serving patients from across Uganda and neighboring countries. The hospital is also a hub for community mental health outreach and advocacy, helping to reduce stigma and improve access to care for those with mental health conditions.
Beds: 500+
Doctors: 30+ (psychiatrists, psychologists, medical officers)
3. Uganda Cancer Institute, Kampala
Big Introduction:
The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) is the nation’s leading center for cancer care, research, and training. Established in 1967, UCI has grown into a regional hub for oncology, attracting patients from across East Africa. The institute offers comprehensive cancer diagnostics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and palliative care, and is at the forefront of cancer research and clinical trials in the region.
Beds: 80+
Doctors: 30+ (oncologists, medical officers, researchers)
4. Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala
Big Introduction:
The Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) is a national center of excellence for cardiovascular care, research, and training. Located within the Mulago Hospital complex, UHI provides advanced diagnostics, cardiac surgery, interventional cardiology, and rehabilitation. UHI is recognized for its pioneering heart surgeries and for training Uganda’s next generation of cardiac specialists.
Beds: 60+
Doctors: 25+ (cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, medical officers)
5. International Hospital Kampala (IHK), Kampala
Big Introduction:
International Hospital Kampala is Uganda’s leading private tertiary care hospital and the only COHSASA-accredited facility in the country. Established in 2000, IHK is part of the International Medical Group and is known for its high standards, modern technology, and a wide range of specialties. IHK is a preferred destination for both Ugandans and international patients seeking advanced medical and surgical care.
Beds: 100
Doctors: 80+ (specialists, consultants, general practitioners)
6. Nakasero Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Nakasero Hospital is a premier private hospital in Kampala, renowned for its upscale environment, cutting-edge technology, and highly skilled consultants. Opened in 2009, it is favored by Uganda’s upper class and international community, offering world-class treatment across a range of specialties, including surgery, cardiology, and intensive care.
Beds: 80
Doctors: 60+ (consultants, specialists, general practitioners)
7. Case Medical Centre, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Case Medical Centre is a leading private hospital with over 26 years of experience, evolving from a small clinic to a mini-referral hospital. Known for its personalized care, Case offers a full range of general and specialized medical services and is highly rated for its customer service and quality outcomes.
Beds: 100
Doctors: 80+ (specialists, GPs, consultants)
8. Ruby Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Ruby Hospital is a modern, state-of-the-art private medical facility in Kampala, offering a welcoming environment, advanced equipment, and a wide range of specialties. With the first and only 3T MRI in Uganda and a modern surgery center, Ruby Hospital is at the forefront of diagnostic and surgical innovation.
Beds: 60
Doctors: 40+ (specialists, general practitioners)
9. Kampala Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Founded in 2007, Kampala Hospital is known for its personalized care and pioneering diagnostic imaging. It was the first hospital in Uganda to install an MRI and CT Scanner, setting the benchmark for advanced diagnostics in the country.
Beds: 70
Doctors: 50+ (consultants, specialists, GPs)
10. UMC Victoria Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
UMC Victoria Hospital is one of Africa’s leading hospitals, providing world-class healthcare services in a modern, patient-focused environment. The hospital offers a full suite of specialties, including radiology, ICU, neonatal care, and modular operating theaters, and is benchmarked to international quality standards.
Beds: 100
Doctors: 60+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
11. Medipal International Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Established in 2019, Medipal International Hospital is one of Uganda’s largest private tertiary care hospitals, offering a full spectrum of diagnostic, imaging, and surgical services. The hospital is known for its research-oriented practices and a team of renowned consultants, both local and international.
Beds: 120
Doctors: 70+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
12. Lifeline International Hospital, Zana
Big Introduction:
Lifeline International Hospital is a modern private facility located on the outskirts of Kampala. With a 120-bed capacity, it offers a wide range of specialist and diagnostic services, including a neonatal ICU, multiple operating theaters, and a highly trained team of medical practitioners.
Beds: 120
Doctors: 50+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
13. Mengo Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Founded in 1897, Mengo Hospital is the oldest hospital in Uganda and East Africa. As a private, faith-based teaching hospital, Mengo has a legacy of compassionate care, community service, and medical education. It is a leading provider of specialized and general medical services.
Beds: 250
Doctors: 70+ (consultants, specialists, GPs)
14. Uganda Martyrs Rubaga Hospital, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Established in 1899, Rubaga Hospital is a 240-bed faith-based referral hospital known for its comprehensive medical and surgical services. The hospital is a model of contemporary healthcare, combining tradition with modern practices to serve the Kampala community.
Beds: 240
Doctors: 60+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
15. St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, Kampala
Big Introduction:
Founded in 1903, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya is the largest non-government hospital in Kampala. Owned by the Kampala Archdiocese, Nsambya is a tertiary referral hospital with a strong Catholic ethos, providing care to over 30,000 patients annually across a broad spectrum of services.
Beds: 361
Doctors: 80+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
16. St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, Gulu
Big Introduction:
St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor is a renowned faith-based hospital in Gulu, northern Uganda. It is a major referral center for the region, known for its commitment to serving vulnerable populations and its excellence in surgery, maternal health, and infectious disease management.
Beds: 600
Doctors: 40+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
17. Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Mbale
Big Introduction:
Mbale Regional Referral Hospital is one of Uganda’s top-performing public hospitals, recognized for its high standards of care and service delivery. Serving the eastern region, Mbale RRH is a referral center for complex cases and a key player in public health initiatives.
Beds: 400
Doctors: 60+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
18. Arua Regional Referral Hospital, Arua
Big Introduction:
Arua Regional Referral Hospital is a leading public hospital serving northwestern Uganda. It has been recognized as one of the best-performing regional hospitals, providing essential services to a large catchment area.
Beds: 400
Doctors: 50+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
19. Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Hoima
Big Introduction:
Hoima RRH is a major public hospital in western Uganda, known for its high-quality care and performance. It serves as a referral center for the region and is involved in numerous health outreach and training programs.
Beds: 400
Doctors: 50+ (specialists, consultants, GPs)
20. International Specialized Hospital of Uganda (in development), Kampala
Big Introduction:
Set to be Uganda’s most advanced medical institution, the International Specialized Hospital of Uganda will offer state-of-the-art care in cancer, cardiology, neurosurgery, kidney transplants, and more. With 243 beds and world-class technology, it aims to serve both Ugandans and patients from neighboring countries, setting a new benchmark for specialized care in East Africa.
Beds: 243
Doctors: 100+ (planned, including international specialists)
Why Choose the Best Hospitals in Uganda?
- Comprehensive Specialties: From advanced surgery and cancer care to maternal health and pediatrics, these hospitals cover every major medical field.
- Modernization: Many facilities are newly built or renovated, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and international accreditation.
- Patient-Centered Care: Testimonials highlight the compassion, expertise, and dedication of Ugandan healthcare professionals.
- Regional Coverage: Hospitals serve both urban centers and remote regions, ensuring access to care across Uganda.
- Continuous Improvement: Ongoing investments in infrastructure, staff training, and partnerships raise the standard of care.
Patient Experience and Quality of Care
Uganda’s hospitals are recognized for their dedication to patient dignity, efficient emergency response, and a growing focus on specialized and preventive care. Whether you need urgent treatment, chronic disease management, or maternity services, these hospitals provide a high level of expertise and personal attention.
Conclusion
Choosing one of the best Hospitals in Uganda ensures access to skilled professionals, modern facilities, and a network of care in both urban and remote regions. Each hospital in this guide exemplifies the resilience, innovation, and patient focus that define Ugandan healthcare.