REGIONAL Health Officer (RHO) of Region Three, Dr. Erica Forte, has emphasised the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare services in the region despite numerous challenges. Her comments came during a recent meeting with President Dr. Irfaan Ali, where Regional Health Officers and Regional Educational Officers gathered to discuss community-level service delivery.
Dr. Forte highlighted the substantial improvements made at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) over the past four years. Notably, the hospital has expanded its surgical capabilities, transitioning from a single operating room functioning only during the day to two operating rooms available around the clock. “It’s a small operating theater. As we know, the hospital is old; however, it provides 24-hour services, allowing us to perform surgeries both day and night,” Dr. Forte stated.

This shift has resulted in a dramatic 97 per cent decrease in patient referrals to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for surgical needs, particularly during the night. The hospital has also introduced laparoscopic surgery, enabling major procedures to be conducted through minimally invasive techniques, which enhance recovery times and facilitate quicker returns to work.

In 2024, WDRH achieved a remarkable milestone with 1,700 deliveries, a number previously unmatched in the hospital’s history. Additionally, Dr. Forte noted improvements in patient care quality, including the establishment of the second-largest Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in Guyana, which now serves not only Region Three but also patients from Regions Two, Ten, and Diamond on the East Bank Demerara.

Dr. Forte emphasised the hospital’s commitment to community outreach, with monthly visits to larger islands like Leguan and Wakenaam to provide medical services directly to residents. Furthermore, the hospital has introduced echocardiogram services, allowing patients with heart issues to receive care locally and reducing the need for external referrals.
The WDRH has also collaborated with Region Six to facilitate cataract surgeries for patients. Specialists from Region Six travel to WDRH to screen patients before transferring them for surgery, ensuring access to essential procedures that are not yet available in Region Three.

In addition to these advancements, Dr. Forte mentioned the decentralisation of services such as physiotherapy to special needs schools and communities like Parfait Harmony and Parika. Looking ahead, she announced the anticipated opening of the new De Kinderen Hospital in Region Three, as well as plans for a state-of-the-art facility to replace the existing WDRH. These developments are expected to further enhance healthcare services in the region, ensuring improved access and quality of care for all residents.