-at Wanakai & Tobago, Region 1

-by Kimberly Giddings

Residents of Wanakai and Tobago in Region One now have improved access to healthcare with the commissioning of two new health facilities.

Commissioned by the Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, the health posts will serve a combined population of just over 400 residents – 169 in Wanakai and 246 in Tobago.

For many years, access to medical care meant enduring long and often dangerous journeys to reach health facilities.

The new health posts will now significantly improve response times in emergencies, enhance maternal and child health services and support preventative care through routine check-ups, vaccinations and health education.

Wanakai Village Resident, Veona Williams, said she is grateful that her children can now be taken to a health centre closer to home.

“I’m so proud about it for my kids we paddled so far and for my first child we struggled, we took an hour to reach to a hospital,” she said.

Community Health Officer, Darian Febuary said, “I feel happy, it’s my pleasure to serve them, well I’ve always wanted to serve them.”

Meanwhile, Minister Anthony says the government remains committed to ensuring that every community has access to essential services such as healthcare.

He emphasised that there should be no disparity between the level of services available in hinterland communities and the coastland.

“Today, with the opening of this facility, you are getting closer to getting more health services right here in your village. And with the training of the community health worker, you have somebody right here that would be able to deliver those services,” he said.

With the commissioning of these facilities, new employment opportunities are being created for residents, particularly those interested in pursuing careers in the health sector.