Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony says the vast majority of survivors rescued from the capsized MV Barima have received medical treatment and have either continued their journeys or returned home, with only three patients remaining under observation.

Providing an update on the government’s medical response, Dr. Anthony said 67 people were rescued. Of those, 50 were taken to the Charity Hospital, where they were triaged. Four patients requiring more advanced treatment were transferred to the Lima Regional Hospital.

An additional 17 survivors arrived at the Lima Hospital aboard rescue boats and were also assessed. Two required further medical attention before being treated.

The minister said all rescued persons received medical evaluations and treatment for mostly minor injuries.
Only three patients remain under observation, and doctors expect they could be discharged if their conditions remain stable.
After receiving treatment, survivors were accommodated at the Essequibo Technical Institute, where they were kept informed of developments and provided with psychosocial support and counselling services.

Dr. Anthony said the government also coordinated transportation for survivors wishing to continue to Port Kaituma, Maburuma and nearby communities, while others were flown back to Georgetown. Regional authorities in Region One assisted in transporting returning residents to their homes.

Eight people chose to remain in the Essequibo area while awaiting news about missing relatives. The government has arranged accommodation, meals and continued support for them for as long as necessary.

To support the emergency response, approximately 15 doctors were deployed at the Charity Hospital, including a specialist team from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation led by an Accident and Emergency consultant. Nearly 40 doctors were also placed on standby at the Lima Regional Hospital.

Dr. Anthony said the full medical response remains in place and healthcare personnel will continue to support rescue operations and survivors in the coming days.