KARAWAB and Kabakaburi, two remote communities along the Upper Pomeroon River, have become the first beneficiaries of a groundbreaking telemedicine pilot project, heralding a new era in regional healthcare delivery. The announcement was made by Arnold Adams, Head of the Health and Sanitation Committee and Prime Minister’s Representative, during the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meeting held on Wednesday, January 8, 2024, in Anna Regina.

Addressing councillors in the RDC boardroom, Adams described telemedicine as a progressive initiative poised to revolutionise the regional health sector. He noted that health posts in Karawab and Kabakaburi have already started utilising telemedicine, which enables remote consultations and diagnosis, effectively bridging the gap between community health workers and specialists.

Providing further insight, Regional Health Officer, Dr. Ranjeev Singh, who is also a PPP councillor, outlined the project’s objectives. Through telemedicine, community health workers can connect with specialists at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment. Dr. Singh emphasised the technology’s potential to transform healthcare delivery in remote areas where access to specialised care has long been a challenge.
The initiative also received a boost with the installation of WiFi at all health facilities in the Pomeroon River region. Adams credited the Office of the Prime Minister for providing the connectivity, which has significantly improved healthcare management and communication.

Dr. Singh expressed optimism about the project’s expansion, revealing plans to introduce telemedicine in all riverine health posts by the end of 2025. This ambitious target underscores the government’s commitment to equitable healthcare access.
Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, praised the Ministry of Health for championing telemedicine as a practical solution to improve healthcare in underserved communities. He also highlighted ongoing rehabilitation efforts at several health facilities in the region, aimed at enhancing patient experiences.

This initiative reflects the government’s broader goal of improving healthcare delivery in remote areas, ensuring residents receive timely and quality care regardless of geographic barriers. The pilot project in Karawab and Kabakaburi is seen as a pivotal step in achieving this vision, with the promise of expanded services and modernised facilities to benefit all residents of the Pomeroon River region.