– bringing expanded services to community

RESIDENTS of Aurora, Region Two, are celebrating a major milestone in local healthcare delivery as the Aurora Health Post has been officially upgraded to a Health Centre, marking a significant step toward improved access to medical services in the area.
The recent announcement was made during the facility’s first annual health fair, which was attended by Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo, Adviser to the Minister of Health, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, and Chief Medex, Carleen Howard-Mohabir.
Speaking to a gathering of residents, school children, and healthcare workers, Dr Mahadeo said the expanded range of services offered at the facility now meets the standards of a full-fledged Health Centre.
“Health posts offer basic services… but here, you have a visiting medex, a visiting midwife, a pharmacy assistant, one community health worker and two more will be added, a patient care assistant, and a cleaner. You have a full-blown Health Centre. The services of a health centre are being offered here,” he stated.
Dr Mahadeo further revealed that specialist services will soon be introduced at the upgraded facility, reducing the need for residents to travel to Suddie for treatment of chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
“When we have the personnel, you will be able to get your ultrasound done right here as well. Pregnant mothers are already being seen here, and soon high-risk mothers will also receive care here,” he added.
He emphasised that the expansion aligns with President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision of ensuring equitable access to world-class healthcare for all Guyanese. With 291 households in the community, the Ministry plans to have community health workers visit every home at least once every three months to conduct routine checks and provide health education.
“We will be coming to you, talking to you about your health, your diseases, your environment, and the services we offer — but your health is in your hands. Let’s meet each other halfway,” Dr Mahadeo urged residents.
A management committee will also be established to ensure the effective operation of the new Health Centre, comprising representatives from the regional administration, the community, and the Suddie Hospital under whose supervision the centre falls.
Chief Medex Carleen Howard-Mohabir commended the Medex in charge of the Aurora Health Centre, presenting her with an award for outstanding service. She also encouraged young residents to pursue studies in healthcare and return to serve their community.
“You have a government that is fully committed to serving the people — to meeting their needs and ensuring that they not only live longer but live quality lives,” Dr Mahadeo affirmed.
The upgrade of the Aurora facility reflects the government’s continued investment in decentralising healthcare and strengthening primary health services across the regions.