Long travels to Georgetown for specialised medical services, be it surgical procedures or diagnostic tests, will soon no longer be necessary for residents of Region Five (Mahaica- Berbice) with the construction of a new regional at Bath.
This hospital is one of six State-funded regional hospitals being constructed across the country by Chinese companies Sinopharm international and the China CAMC Engineering Company Limited.
In total, $40 billion will be spent on the six facilities.
At a sod turning ceremony on Tuesday, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony told residents that the Bath hospital will include 75 in-patient beds, three operating theatres (including two theatres for major operations), a neonatal unit to support premature babies, digital diagnostic services and a modern laboratory.
The Health Minister said such services are not available in the region currently. In fact, he acknowledged that persons involved in a serious accident, for example, would have to travel to Georgetown for treatment.
“Such complications can be managed right here in the region,” Dr. Anthony said, underscoring the importance of the new hospital.
While the infrastructure is being developed, Dr. Anthony said more trained health professionals are needed. He said the government is keen on hiring people from the region to work at this hospital.
But that is not a simple task, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
The Head of State said labour shortages are a challenge being faced in most sectors across the country. He, however, hopes that more people will capitalise on State-funded training programmes so that employment needs can be met soon.
“Every single day that is my number one complaint from the private sector and businesses- (that) there is a labour problem.
“This is the reality of the speed at which we are developing,” Dr. Ali said.
He, however, urged people to capitalise on the numerous training opportunities provided since the government will fund those opportunities and provide a direct pathway to employment.
“There is enough space in our workforce for everyone to work,” the President posited.
