GPHC records over 50 per cent increase in patients

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has recorded a significant increase in patients treated at the hospital. This was revealed by the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Robbie Rambarran during a media briefing on Monday.

“For the corresponding period for 2023, meaning from January to October 2023 as compared to January to October 2024, we have seen an increase of patients at this hospital of 55.3 per cent,” Rambarran announced.

He further explained that in 2023, some 238,635 patients were seen while in 2024, by the end of October, 306,917 patients were treated so far. Rambarran contended that the increase of volume in patients meant an increase in the public’s confidence in the hospital.

While the increase means more lab tests, imaging, surgeries and increased procurement of pharmaceuticals, drugs, and medical supplies, a shortage in nursing staff still persists.

“As you know we are very short of nurses, it really impacts on some of the things and we can do more.

“In terms of the physicians per team for different specialties, I think we are good with that but we still have a significant shortage for nursing care,” Rambarran said in response to a question asked about whether the increased in patients also saw an increase in nurses.

Rambarran also acknowledged that negative incidents sometimes overshadow the hospital’s successes.

“Many times we hear the bad things but everyday there are many many good things that happens here.

He further added: “Yes, there are a few things that go wrong and sometimes things that are said are blown out of context and many times we investigate these things and they are really far from what transpired, but we have been committed to providing world class healthcare service.”

Highlighting investments in healthcare at the hospital, Rambarran noted the recent acquisition of a 100-watt laser machine for prostate surgeries and a 50-watt machine for kidney stone removal. Additionally, approval was recently granted for a $128 million arthroscopy project to enhance orthopedic care.

The hospital is currently undergoing a massive brain tumour operation with the newly acquired $69 million CUSA clarity equipment.

“We are buying very expensive, the best equipment on the market. We have our surgeons, many of our physicians are going abroad for fellowship so obviously when they come back here they need the tools to execute what they have learned and to provide that care for the patient.”

Additionally, he said GPHC conducted numerous specialised surgeries.

At the media briefing it was revealed that 158 major surgical procedures were done at the hospital this year.