Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony announced that dialysis services will be introduced at the six new hospitals that were recently commissioned, as the government continues efforts to delay the onset of kidney failure.

“We want this to be across the board, where every week at least, they will be in one of these institutions to provide specialised kidney services,” the minister said.

He also encouraged citizens to make full use of the government’s adult voucher program for early screening, emphasising that early detection is key to preventing kidney disease.

The minister was at the time speaking at a World Kidney Day Conference at Herdmanston Lodge, hosted by the Ministry of Health’s Chronic Disease Unit in collaboration with Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Kidney foundation and the University of Guyana on Tuesday.

He highlighted the growing impact of chronic diseases in Guyana, particularly diabetes and hypertension, which are major contributors to kidney disease.

Dr Anthony further noted that the Ministry established a dedicated Chronic Disease Department in recent years to strengthen prevention, early detection, and treatment services across the country.

He also outlined ongoing initiatives to expand dialysis services and strengthen kidney care nationwide. These include partnerships with non-governmental organisations and international institutions in a bid to to support improved treatment and training.

In thsi regard, the Health minister noted Guyana’s progress in kidney transplant services, with Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation currently licensed to perform kidney transplants.

The conference was held under the theme “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet.”