IN the Ministry of Health’s quest to make essential services accessible across the country, an ultrasound machine was recently installed at the Charity Oscar Joseph Hospital in Region Two.

According to Regional Health Officer Dr Ranjeev Singh, the ultrasound services will be available to those in riverain and far-flung communities, including pregnant mothers from Moruca.

Dr Singh said that the Ministry of Health has recognised the cost that patients incurred travelling to Suddie Public Hospital to access such services.

“We want to make these services available so that it will cut the cost and people don’t have to travel long distances to access these essential services,” Dr Singh said.

He said that the service is now available at the hospital for the first time and will ensure Pomeroon and Moruca residents can easily access an ultrasound machine.

Since the installation of the machine, many persons have shown interest.

“We are happy for this. Before we had to venture till to Suddie to get these services. Living this end it cost almost $2,000 to travel to get an ultrasound using public transportation. We are thankful for this,” Erica Williams of New Road said.

The ultrasound services at Suddie Public Hospital and the Charity Hospital are being offered on a 24-hour basis and are free.