Uganda: Uganda Has One Licensed Doctor for Every 6,400 People, Figures Show

Uganda's medical workforce faces significant challenges as the country's population is expected to exceed 50 million by the end of 2026. According to the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council (UMDPC), there are 7,871 actively licensed doctors for the 2026 practice year, which translates to about one licensed doctor for every 6,400 people.

The discrepancy between the total registered doctors (10,951) and those with active licenses highlights the disparity between trained professionals and those actively serving patients. This ratio of roughly one actively licensed doctor for every 6,385 people, or 15.7 doctors per 100,000 people, does not account for all doctors working in various sectors, including private facilities, academia, and research.

The uneven distribution of doctors across the country further complicates healthcare access, particularly in rural and remote areas. Despite the large number of trained doctors, the available medical workforce must be considered alongside population growth, geographical distribution, and the availability of other essential health professionals.

The pressure on Uganda's healthcare system is evident in public hospitals, where staffing shortages and disputes among medical interns further strain resources. While Uganda boasts a sizable pool of trained doctors, ensuring they are practising, located where needed, and accessible to patients remains a significant challenge as the population continues to grow rapidly.