Through U.S. assistance…
THE East La Penitence Health Centre, in Georgetown, which was commissioned into use on September 10, 2009, with support from the United States (U.S.) now has two more interior rooms and a dental chair.
The additions, donated in the effort to add value to the lives of those utilising the facility, were inspected Wednesday by Minister within the Ministry of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran and other sector officials, after being officially handed over by a visiting U.S. team.
The works were done by marines from the HSV (High Speed Vessel) Swift, of the U.S. Navy, who were here to assist with new expertise, as well as community support.
Speaking on behalf of the Americans, Colonel Todd Furtado said the contribution represents a collaboration and strong partnership.
He said the benefits are two-fold, because the volunteers, who gave of their time and energy, were afforded an opportunity to develop their capabilities in different areas and Guyana was the beneficiary of the results, improved infrastructural facilities.
Ramsaran expressed the Administration’s appreciation for the assistance and said it should be noted that the emphasis was on expanding services.
“It has not yet been a year and already we are adding new services,” he said about the centre’s existence.
Ramsaran said the clinic can also address maternal and child health, chronic diseases, cervical cancer and HIV/AIDS.
He said quality services available there will advance the Ministry’s vision for delivering care to all Guyanese.
The Guyana visit by the marines is part of Southern Partnership Station (SPS) 2010, a major component of the partnership of the Americas Maritime Strategy from Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), with the goals of ensuring theatre security and strengthening relationships among regional partners.
This was the first time a U.S. naval vessel or one under contract to the U.S. Navy has moored pier side in Georgetown and the Swift is scheduled to leave Guyana today.