after representing Guyana at SOLACI conference in Cuba

DR. SURUJ HARRICHAND, a prominent Guyanese Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Guyanese to be selected for an accredited Master’s Programme in Interventional Cardiology in Cuba.
The programme will commence in September 2025.

Dr. Harrichand’s selection followed his participation earlier this month in the prestigious 2025 Latin American Society of Interventional Cardiology (SOLACI) Conference held in Havana, Cuba. The annual event brought together over two dozen professionals from Latin America, Central America, and the Caribbean to discuss advancements and innovations in cardiovascular care.

A graduate of the University of Medical Sciences of Villa Clara, Cuba, Dr. Harrichand earned his post-graduate degree in Clinical Cardiology in 2022. He immediately pursued an intensive specialisation in Clinical and Invasive Electrophysiology and Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices, including pacemakers, Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs), and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRTs).
Upon his return to Guyana in 2023, Dr. Harrichand rejoined the Ministry of Health and quickly distinguished himself in the field. To date, he has performed 170 pacemaker implants, one ICD implantation, and 25 electrophysiology studies—contributing significantly to the country’s growing cardiac care capabilities.

With Guyana preparing to open several new hospitals this year, including four state-of-the-art Catheterization Laboratories (Cat Labs), Dr. Harrichand is optimistic about the future of cardiovascular healthcare in the country.
“This will greatly advance cardiac care in the country, thereby bringing it to a First World level of healthcare,” he stated. Drawing comparisons to the Institute of Cardiology in Havana, where Cat Labs operate 24/7 and perform over 1,000 angiograms and stenting procedures annually, he expressed confidence in Guyana’s trajectory in heart care.

The Latin American Society of Interventional Cardiology, established to promote cardiovascular interventions throughout the region, operates in 20 countries and boasts more than 2,500 members. The Society has also built strategic partnerships with global cardiovascular institutions including the European Society of Cardiology, the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and the Cardiovascular Research Foundation.
Dr. Harrichand’s groundbreaking achievement represents not only personal advancement but also a pivotal step forward in Guyana’s journey to deliver world-class cardiac care.