PUBLIC health institutions have evolved a long way from what they were prior to the total transformation of the sector by the PPP/C Government, although human error and transgressions have sometimes caused a lack in requisite and timely service delivery, at times with tragic and avoidable consequences.

However, while the rare mistakes and shortfalls are trumpeted and emblazoned in headlines by the Opposition media houses, the success stories often are not told, or rate barely a scant mention in some obscure section of the Opposition print media, and hardly any at all by the Opposition electronic press.
But the success stories are daily occurrences, with dedicated healthcare workers delivering quality service to patients; and such stories should also be highlighted the way the rare anomalies in the system are.
For those health sector workers who shirk their duty and responsibilities to their patients should be severely punished; but, conversely, accolades and appreciation should be showered on those who work beyond the call of duty to provide comfort and care for sick patients, especially to those for whom illness has become a new norm in their lives.
For someone who is ill, a smile and comforting word can mean a great deal, and may even accelerate recovery, because it is a proven fact that one in good spirits is buoyed enough to fight their illness, while the depressed heart quite easily gives up the fight, causing their health to degenerate even further.
Expressing appreciation for the kindness and care of healthcare providers could also be a motivating factor to encourage those rendering such service to redouble their efforts. Constructive criticism is necessary sometimes; but so, too, are words of praise for work well done.
Last Sunday, this newspaper reported on a near-miraculous recovery of a badly stricken man, who had become completely paralyzed on his entire left side.
The reporter wrote: “THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has again come in for kudos. This time, from a deeply gratified and rejoicing East Coast Demerara family, whose loved one’s life was hanging precariously in the balance, but who was saved after a successful surgery at the institution.
“Fifty-four-year-old, Winston Khan, last Saturday woke up to find that his left hand and foot were numb and he could not move them. In fact, in his words, his left side was “completely dead.”
“Naturally, Khan panicked and called out to his wife. She quickly alerted other family members, and a decision was made to take him to the GPHC. On arrival at the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Unit, he was triaged then sent on to the treatment area where he was seen by a doctor. He was subjected to a Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan and other tests, but the results of the CT scan determined that there was a clot in his brain, which was responsible for the condition he was suffering.
“After a successful operation by GPHC staff, whereby the doctor removed the clot from his brain, Khan’s recovery was almost immediate, with his mobility fully restored within two days.
“According the Khan’s relatives, “I would tell anybody, if you’re sick, don’t be hesitant, go to the Georgetown Hospital. The doctors are efficient and the service is good.”
So, plaudits are owed the GPHC staffers for the quality healthcare that they provide, most often beyond the call of duty; and to the Government for the expansion of the sector to where every community, including the remote hinterland regions, has access to healthcare institutions and providers.