THE HbA1C test, which was never previously offered at the Suddie Public Hospital, in Region Two, is now available. This was revealed by the Regional Health Officer (RHO) Dr. Ranjeev Singh, during Wednesday’s statutory meeting of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).
During the meeting, Dr. Ranjeev informed the council that the Haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test that measures the amount of blood sugar (glucose) attached to the haemoglobin is now available at the hospital. He said with the test, persons can detect the glucose level in their blood at an early stage and will know how to control the chronic illness from an early stage. The test was never available since there were no parameters and re-agents to conduct the reinstallations in the machine which was in place. Dr. Singh explained to the council that haemoglobin is part of the red blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. He said that the test is available free of cost.

Opposition Councillor, Mark Mc Lean, during the discussion, commended the work of the RHO in ensuring that systems were put in place and the necessary recommendations were made to ensure that the test became available in the region. Mc Lean said the test was available at private laboratories and persons had to pay approximately $8000 to $10,000 to have it done. He commended the Ministry of Health for its efforts to make the service available at the public hospital.
Meanwhile, Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, said she is very happy that the test is now available. She said this will ensure that persons are able to check their glucose levels to detect any issues at an early stage. She also commended the RHO for making representations so that the test can be made available in the region free of cost.