Robotics among plans to improve Guyana’s healthcare

Guyana is touted as a potential hub for world-class medical services and President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Wednesday night told the country’s newest doctors that his government intends to infuse robotics in the delivery of healthcare here.

The Guyanese Head of State, in his address at the University of Guyana’s (UG) white coat ceremony for the newly-graduated doctors, told them that they are entering a sector which will undergo rapid transformation in the coming years.

He outlined his government’s plans to develop the country’s health infrastructure by upgrading hospitals and other health centres, while simultaneously training more people.

With these efforts, he believes that a world-class healthcare system that serves local needs and attracts foreign patients can be developed.

“The long game is to position Guyana as an important medical hub globally.

“… We are moving full speed ahead in bringing up to speed our medical system to allow robotics to be part of the medical care delivery,” President Ali announced.

This announcement adds to those he made just one week prior when he told a gathering of private sector players that new hospitals, a new mental health facility and the introduction of stem cell services are among plans to expand the local health sector.

And in all of the government’s plans, the President emphasised that there is immense private sector support.

Though exciting developments lie ahead, the President cautioned them that the profession would not be without its challenges.

“You are in a profession that will see many challenges and changes,” he said.

The doctors gathered at the white coat ceremony have now officially entered the medical profession. And the President posited that they are instrumental in all of Guyana’s plans.

Importantly, he said that they too will benefit from greater opportunities. Already, the Head of State related that there are 19 speciality programmes in the country for them to capitalise on.

“There are greater opportunities coming your way,” President Ali said.