Health authorities in Uganda are urging the public to make hearing check-ups a routine part of their medical care, stressing that early detection can prevent avoidable hearing loss and improve treatment outcomes. The appeal came from ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists at Mulago National Specialised Hospital during the official launch of a new audiology booth on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
A Controlled Space for Accurate Results
The facility, valued at sh217m, is designed to raise the standard of hearing assessments by providing a controlled environment free from background noise, which often distorts test results. Dr Abubakar Bugembe, a consultant ENT surgeon at Mulago, explained that the booth functions as a soundproof compartment where noise levels are carefully regulated. Specialised sound-measuring equipment confirms whether the space meets internationally accepted standards for hearing tests.
According to Bugembe, reliable hearing assessments depend on a quiet setting so that results can be trusted by medical professionals both locally and abroad. The new booth is expected to reduce the number of patients referred to other health facilities for hearing evaluation, keeping more services under one roof at Uganda's largest referral hospital.
Affordable Access for Patients
Patients will initially pay sh8,000 to cover consumables such as printing paper used during testing. Hospital officials note that the fee may be adjusted over time as more advanced hearing assessment methods are introduced. The launch was attended by hospital leadership, including Dr Rosemary Byanyima, who joined specialists in inspecting the new facility.
The specialists emphasised that many people ignore early signs of hearing difficulty, only seeking help when the problem has advanced. They encouraged Ugandans of all ages to undergo regular screening, particularly those exposed to loud environments or who have a history of ear infections.
Why Early Testing Matters
Hearing loss can develop gradually and often goes unnoticed until it begins to affect communication, learning and social life. Experts say timely diagnosis allows for interventions that can slow deterioration and improve quality of life. The new audiology booth is seen as a significant step toward making those assessments more accessible and dependable for patients across the country.
- The booth eliminates background noise that can interfere with test accuracy.
- It is expected to reduce referrals to other facilities for hearing tests.
- Initial patient charge is set at sh8,000 for consumables.
- Specialists urge routine hearing check-ups for early detection.
With the facility now operational, Mulago hopes to strengthen its ear care services and encourage a culture of preventive health among Ugandans.
