Greater participation needed to address health challenges- Dr. Norton

The Public Health Minister says there is a greater need for participation of civil society both local and international along with the public and private sectors in addressing the challenges in the health sector.

During the Guyana Business Coalition on Health Awareness (GBCHA) Annual Awards for Business Excellence Ceremony on Wednesday evening, Minister, Dr. George Norton highlighted that there is a new era of health challenges facing the sector, in the form of Non-Communicable-Diseases (NCDs) which he says is key on government’s agenda to be addressed.

This he feels promotes the development of the human capital in any country.

The Public Health Minister also added that he recognises an increase in cases where citizens are injured or suffer some form of disability due to violence.

GBCHA Chairperson, Donna Roberts-Benjamin said it is important to recognise efforts being contributed by and through the business community in promoting heath.

She applauded the companies which place close attention to the well-being of their staffs.

GBCHA was formerly known as the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS after a name change last year April.

The Coalition awarded several companies for their performance in the area of health.

Republic Bank Limited (Guyana) copped first place for Advocacy and Leadership after adding Autism awareness to its advocacy efforts.

The bank also copped first place in the category of Workplace Programme for educating employees about the prevention, transmission, stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS as well as informing about other health-related and social issues.

Scotiabank received first prize for its Community Investment and honourable mention for its workplace programme.