By Royan Abrams
The Ministry of Health has launched its Dental Assistant Training Programme in Region Six, with twenty participants enrolled from various communities including Orealla, Siparuta, and Baracara.
This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to decentralize dental services and improve access to oral health care across the country.
The launch event, held at the Regional Health Services Boardroom in New Amsterdam, Berbice, featured remarks from Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony.
Dr. Anthony emphasized the increasing demand for dental services and the critical need for more dental assistants to meet this demand.
He encouraged the new trainees to view this program as a stepping stone to a rewarding career in health care.
“We want you to think about this as a career,” Dr. Anthony said. “There are many steps you can take in this career in health.
Some of you may want to remain in dentistry, and with the experience and training you gain here, this can be one of the stepping stones to other opportunities.”
The decision to extend the training program to Region Six was welcomed by Regional Chairman David Armogan, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunities it provides to young people in the region.
Armogan highlighted the positive impact this program will have on the local communities as the trained dental assistants return to offer much-needed oral and dental health services.
Dr. Anthony also announced that the Ministry will be adding two dental X-ray units in New Amsterdam and Port Mourant to further expand service delivery in the region.
This enhancement is part of a broader effort to ensure that comprehensive dental care is available to all Guyanese.
The pioneering dental assistants, upon completing their one-year training, are expected to significantly contribute to improving oral health in their respective communities, ensuring that more residents have access to essential dental services.