By Navendra Seoraj

IN an effort at Dr Balwant Singh Hospital to boost cardiology services, they have officially introduced two full-time heart specialists.Cardiologist Dr Javier Almeida Gomez and Cardio-vascular Surgeon, Dr Jorge Carlos Machin Rodriguez were introduced in the presence of media representatives yesterday at the hospital.
This is seen as an immense boost to the hospital’s cardiology department,given that both doctors are qualified and experienced in their fields of expertise, said the hospital’s Director of Medical Services, Dr Madhu Singh.
Dr Gomez is the holder of a first and second degree in cardiology, and has completed a fellowship in interventional cardiology in Spain. It was outlined that, to date, he has performed more than 9,000 coronary angiograms – a special X-ray test done to find out if one’s coronary arteries are blocked or narrowed, where and by how much.
And Dr Rodriguez is the holder of a first and second degree in cardio-vascular surgery and has performed more than 2,000 cardiac surgeries, including bypass surgeries, surgeries for patients with congenital heart disease and valvular disease.
Dr Madhu expressed her enthusiasm over the development of the hospital, especially with the added support from the two specialist doctors whom, she said, are capable of executing their skills to the best of their abilities, given that they have been working with the hospital for quite some time.
“Our cardiology department has been functional since 2012, equipped Cardiac Catheterisation lab (Cath lab) – GE Innova 3100 Cath lab- which is one of the most widely used Cath labs in North America and Trinidad,” said the hospital’s Director of Medical Services.
With the aid of part-time specialists at that time they were able to perform approximately 800 angiograms between 2012-2016. The department is currently performing 15-20 angiograms per month, boasting a record-breaking 40 angiograms between April 25 and April 30.
In addition, they offer the stent placements for blockages in the coronary arteries and pacemaker implantation for patients who suffer from abnormal heart rhythms.
24-HOUR SERVICE

The doctors, she said, being full-time, will boost their ability to do more than they did in the past. “Our Cardiology Centre is the only one in Guyana to offer a 24-hour service provided by a full-time cardiologist and cardio-vascular surgeon backed by an exemplary cardiac surgical team,” said Dr Madhu, as she stressed that both specialists will be available 24 hours to offer their services.
Meanwhile, persons are asked to take precautions once they experience certain pains in the chest, shortness of breath and even pains in the neck and the chin. Some of the other services and special offers which the hospital has were also highlighted by Dr Madhu, who encouraged persons to get an angiogram done for just $160,000, and also enjoy other medical testing at low cost.