IN a heartwarming display of dedication and solidarity, the 19th China Medical Team arrived in Guyana in September, marking the 30th anniversary of China’s medical aid to the South American nation. Their mission? To continue a legacy of providing crucial medical support and equipment to Guyana, particularly at the largest public hospital in Georgetown, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Upon their arrival, the 19th China Medical Team swiftly transitioned into their roles, which included the essential task of taking over responsibilities from the 18th team.
Dr. Liu Yi, an ophthalmologist with the 19th team, quickly realised that a vital anterior segment laser therapeutic instrument at the GPHC’s Eye Centre was out of commission due to a faulty circuit board, with no local replacement parts available.
Responding to the pressing need, Zhao Changyong, the leader of the 19th medical team, led the charge in addressing this issue.

Discussions among the team members were held, and with the assistance of Dr. Shi Yu from the 18th medical team, who specialises in ophthalmology, equipment parts were procured from China. This proved to be a challenging endeavour, as these crucial components had to traverse thousands of miles to reach Guyana.
With the equipment parts in hand, a team effort ensued as Dr. Liu Yi, Dr. Li Hu from the plastic surgery department, and Dr. Xie Yin-fei from the acupuncture-moxibustion department, came together to repair the vital equipment at the Eye Centre of Georgetown Hospital.

Their successful repair effort re-instated the instrument’s functionality, ensuring that patients would continue to receive the essential eye care they required.
Remarkably, when praised for their skilled hands and compassionate hearts, the medical team responded humbly, saying, “such stories happened many times before.”
This year marks three decades of China’s unwavering medical aid to Guyana. Over this time, China has generously donated substantial quantities of medical equipment and medicines to the country.

In addition, they have played a pivotal role in establishing various clinical specialised centres within local public hospitals, which have served to foster and develop the skills of countless medical professionals. Their contributions have significantly advanced the local medical field and earned them the admiration and gratitude of the Guyanese people.
Throughout their remarkable journey, the Chinese medical teams have displayed resilience, overcoming numerous obstacles to fill critical medical gaps in the region. Their roles have extended far beyond that of medical practitioners; they have served as doctors, teachers, and ambassadors of friendship. But their contributions also encompass a wide array of services, from handling water and electricity issues to providing hairdressing services when needed.

Their dedication has undoubtedly strengthened the bonds of friendship and co-operation between China and Guyana, making a lasting impact on healthcare in the nation.