THE Ministry of Health in Guyana has reported substantial improvements in the country’s health sector over the past three years, while addressing certain areas of concern.
This statement comes as a response to recent criticisms in a Stabroek News editorial which raised questions about the quality of healthcare in the country.
In a media release, the Ministry unequivocally rejected the notion that healthcare has deteriorated over the past three years, emphasising that there have been notable advancements.
While acknowledging challenges related to the institutionalisation of patient-friendly services, the Ministry asserted that significant progress has been made.
One challenge cited was inappropriate behaviour by a small number of staff members within the sector.

In response to this issue, the Ministry and the government established a hotline, which became operational in April 2023. Since its inception, the hotline has received 77 complaints, with 65 resolved and 12 pending. The Ministry encouraged individuals to use this hotline to address any issues encountered in the healthcare system.
The Ministry also committed to transparency in handling complaints, with the Minister of Health instructing that a monthly report on hotline complaints and actions taken should be made public starting in November 2023.

Addressing specific claims made in the editorial, the Ministry noted the availability of medication and medical supplies at the Skeldon Hospital, which has maintained a rate between 85per cent and 95per cent. Regarding staffing, the Regional Health Department for Region Six acknowledged that staff improvement is a priority for the facility. The hospital’s medical staff has increased from three doctors in August 2020 to seven doctors, including Cuban and Guyanese physicians.

This increase in staffing has led to a rise in patient numbers, with the hospital’s load surpassing 30,000 in 2023, compared to 17,800 in 2020. The Ministry is also working to address nursing shortages across the country.

In relation to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, access to medicine and medical supplies has improved significantly, with a 90 per cent availability rate, up from 32 per cent in 2020.
The Ministry acknowledged that while services have significantly improved, concerns remain about the attitudes of a small number of staff members. Efforts are being made to enhance communication and improve the patient and family experience throughout the sector, as part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to providing patient-friendly services.