In a significant initiative by the Ministry of Health through the Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA), 20 residents from Region 6 have successfully graduated from a Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) program.
The program aimed to equip participants with the skills to facilitate early referrals to comprehensive prevention services and provide care and support for individuals affected by HIV and AIDS.
The participants received guidance on the importance of early detection and were trained on how to support people living with HIV.
Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Advisor to the Minister of Health, emphasized the significance of knowing the HIV status, especially during childbirth.
He highlighted the national guideline’s focus on ensuring that the status of pregnant women is known to provide appropriate care.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the training, with one individual describing the entire experience as a blessing.
Another participant, not from the medical field initially, shared the transformative impact of the program, particularly during practical experiences like preceptorship, where they had the opportunity to support a client emotionally.
Each graduate from the program will be assigned to various health centers across Region 6, contributing to the region’s capability to actively and professionally detect HIV cases early.
This initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing community health and raising awareness about HIV prevention and care.
This graduation marks a positive step in empowering communities and individuals to actively participate in the fight against HIV and AIDS, fostering a supportive environment for those affected.