– from x-rays to ultrasounds, cardiac beds to expanded wards

OVER the past few years – from 2020 to be exact – significant upgrades and expansions to the tune of over one hundred million dollars have been spent on the Mibicuri Hospital, including the introduction of cardiac beds equipped with 24-hour monitoring and the installation of an asthma bay.

Authorities have been expending these and other major efforts on the hospital at Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne), in a bid to provide enhanced healthcare services to residents.
Led by Director-in-Charge, Dr. Sadhana Samtani, patient comfort and the provision of additional medical services are top priorities.

As mentioned, among the notable improvements at the hospital is the introduction of cardiac beds equipped with 24-hour monitoring for patients with heart and lung issues.

With the asthma bay now on hand, the hospital’s treatment room has also been extended for the first time to ensure better care for patients with respiratory conditions.
The rehabilitation and extension of the male, female, and pediatric wards have also been prioritised, providing privacy and self-contained rooms for each patient.

Previously, male and female patients shared facilities without separation for privacy. Moreover, two separate rooms for infectious diseases, particularly pertinent during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been created, with the entire ward now fully air-conditioned.

Reports indicate that in the last quarter of 2023, the x-ray department underwent rehabilitation, introducing a digital x-ray machine after more than 20 years.

Since its inauguration in September 2023, over 200 x-rays have been performed, significantly improving diagnostic capabilities.

The laboratory has also been upgraded to offer a range of services, including biochemistry, hematology, urine analysis, stool, and serology, benefiting geriatric and disabled patients who previously had to travel to other facilities for tests.

According to the Ministry of Health, for the first time, the dental department now offers daily services, including cleanings, and conducts weekly outreaches to local schools and communities.

Additionally, EKG services are now available daily, aiding in the timely diagnosis and management of heart conditions. Monthly specialist services, including dermatology, endocrinology, physiotherapy, and counseling, are also provided, reducing the need for patients to travel to other hospitals.

Moreover, the hospital now offers monthly ultrasounds, benefiting pregnant women, and has seen improvements in pharmacy services with increased drug availability and the addition of pharmacy assistants. The facility has witnessed over 9,000 patient contacts per year over the last four years, with decreased referrals to regional hospitals due to enhanced diagnostic capabilities and quality care.

When contacted by this publication, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, Director-General of the Ministry of Health, emphasised that these upgrades align with the government’s mandate to provide better healthcare services and take services directly to the people.

He highlighted the significant investment in Region Six, with over $400 million spent between 2021 and 2023 to upgrade primary and secondary healthcare facilities.

“This is in keeping with the mandate of His Excellency President Ali to provide better services to residents in their communities. Over the period 2021 to 2023, in addition to the regular regional budget, over $400M was spent in Region Six to upgrade primary and secondary level health care facilities to provide services,” Dr. Mahadeo explained.

He explained that new and more modern equipment have been procured and installed to provide better and more modern services. Additionally, the availability of medical supplies and medicines has increased from below 20 per cent of the national essential drugs list to over 90 per cent, across the country. More specialist services are also available in facilities.

In Region Six, Dr. Mahadeo added that a new diabetic care programme has started. The leadership of this initiative is comprised of five specialised doctors in diabetes from the Cuban Medical Team, along with an angiologist and endocrinologist. The team is dispersed throughout the region and is offering services in alignment with the Ministry of Health’s new approach to addressing chronic diseases.

The Minister of Health, he noted introduced the new protocol for the management of diabetes and hypertension last year, which included updated treatment guidelines and the introduction of new medications.

In conclusion, Dr. Mahadeo noted that the renovations and enhancements at Mibicuri Hospital mark a significant step forward in providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services to residents in Black Bush Polder and surrounding areas, aligning with the government’s vision of prioritising the well-being of its citizens.

“All of the changes are in keeping with the direction of the PPP/C government to provide better care for our people and to take services to the people,” he underscored.