Health Service Commission

The HSC derives its mandate and functions from Article 169 of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda; section 56(3) of the Local Government Act, CAP 243 and, the HSC Act, 2001 section 25(2). In the perspective of laws, the HSC was established in 1998 to address unique Human Resources for Health issues in the health service. Specifically, the Commission is mandated to appoint, confirm, promote and review the terms and conditions of service, training, and qualifications of health workers. The Commission is also mandated to foster professional and work ethics and exercise disciplinary control over the health workers under its jurisdiction.

The Jurisdiction of the HSC covers Central Government Health Institutions which include: – Ministry of Health and specialized institutions under it such as the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, Uganda Cancer Institute, and Medical Professional Councils. Other Central Government Health Institutions include: – National Referral Hospitals, Regional Referral Hospitals, and the Directorate of Public Health and Environment under KCCA. In addition, the Commission provides technical support and support supervision to District Service Commission (DSCs) and Local Governments on matters relating to HRH management such as recruitment of health workers.

Institutional Guiding Principles

Expeditiousness: in the handling of recruitment, appointment, confirmation, promotion, approval of study leave, and disciplining of health professionals.

Responsiveness: timely response to the needs of clients and stakeholders in a way that meets their expectations.

Maximum attention: to unique and peculiar problems affecting health professions as they emerge.

Innovativeness: in strengthening the institutional capacity to effectively fulfill her mandate, organizationally and professionally.

Teamwork: in the course of executing her mandate, the Commission effectiveness from all its Members and staff acting as a body in a synergetic manner.