MINISTER of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, has announced that the Lima Regional Hospital, which is currently under construction, will be fully equipped to manage critically ill patients in Region Two.

During a visit to the region on Friday, Dr. Anthony inspected the progress of the construction works. The hospital is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Dr. Anthony told members of the media that the facility will offer essential medical services, including a 24-hour laboratory, ensuring that when tests are done, the results will be available shortly after.

Additionally, the hospital will feature an advanced imaging suite, offering digital x-rays, ultrasounds, and for the first time on the Essequibo Coast, a CT scan machine. This marks a significant upgrade in healthcare services for the region.

Dr. Anthony highlighted that the hospital is expected to have an on-site radiology unit, allowing for immediate interpretation of x-rays and diagnosis. The imaging platform will also be connected to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), enabling consultants to provide second opinions remotely.

“We are also working with a company to integrate AI technology, which will perform an initial reading of x-rays to help determine normal and abnormal cases,” the health minister added.

COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL SERVICES

The hospital will also feature a dental department and hearing and eye testing services. Notably, hearing aids, previously costing $65,000, will now be provided free of charge by the government.

The second floor of the hospital will house two operating theatres, allowing for routine surgeries to be conducted on-site. A birthing suite will also be built, offering multiple delivery stations for expectant mothers, along with a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to care for premature babies.

ENHANCED PATIENT COMFORT AND PRIVACY

Unlike the open-ward system at the Suddie Public Hospital, the Lima facility will offer 75 inpatient beds, arranged in semi-private rooms with five beds per room. Each unit will have its own toilet and bath, ensuring greater comfort and convenience for patients.

Other modern features of the hospital include full air-conditioning, swipe card access for security and privacy, oxygen supply built into the walls and electronic patient information displayed outside each room.

Dr. Anthony also noted that the new hospital will be fully digitised, enhancing patient record management and healthcare delivery.

EMPLOYMENT AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

In addition to improving healthcare access, the Lima Regional Hospital will create numerous employment opportunities in various fields. The hospital will have a laundry department, kitchen, and specialised medical units which will require trained professionals.

“This will be a modern facility with top-tier amenities, ensuring quality patient care for all Essequibians,” Dr. Anthony stated.

He urged the community to care the new hospital, emphasising that it represents a major step forward for healthcare in the region.