By Delicia Janneire
Health workers from the hinterland regions recently underwent specialized training in cleft palate speech therapy, facilitated by Smile Train Guyana in partnership with the Georgetown Public Hospital.
The training, held from July 21 to 26, focused on equipping healthcare professionals from regions 3, 4, 5, and 9 with advanced skills.
Nine therapists and four rehabilitation assistants participated, including staff from the GPHC’s Speech Therapy Department.
Sonia Fredericks, head of the speech therapy unit at GPHC, was among the trainers.
She emphasized that the training was hands-on, allowing participants to work directly with patients to refine their techniques.
This approach ensures that when these professionals return to their regions, they can continue the therapy process effectively and train others who were unable to attend.
During the program, ten patients who had undergone cleft palate surgeries were involved.
By the end of the training, two patients were discharged after showing proficiency in their therapy sessions.
Fredericks noted an increase in the number of cleft palate cases, with an average of five to ten referrals per surgery.
She encouraged parents with children born with cleft palates to contact Georgetown Hospital for assistance.
The training has significantly enhanced local professionals’ ability to diagnose and treat cleft palate speech issues.
The newly certified participants are now prepared to train their peers from other regions, expanding the reach of this specialized care.
A cleft palate is a congenital condition where a baby is born with an opening in the roof of the mouth, creating a gap between the nose and mouth.