By Delicia Janniere
The cardiology department at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is making significant strides in enhancing its services, according to Minister Dr. Frank Anthony.
Speaking at the launch of the Second Cardiology Symposium held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Minister Anthony emphasized the improvements in testing and treatment for cardiac patients.
Initiatives such as the adoption of the ‘Hearts’ cardiovascular guidelines protocol have played a pivotal role in facilitating the delivery and management of cardiology care across the country.
Despite challenges in achieving full compliance, this protocol has been implemented in over 170 health centers nationwide.
Minister Anthony highlighted the substantial growth in cardiology care at GPHC over the years, with the number of patients benefiting from services steadily increasing.
From treating 80 patients in 2019, the hospital saw a significant rise to 825 patients in 2023, all of whom received free testing and treatment funded by the Government of Guyana.
The minister expressed optimism about further increasing these numbers in the current year.
Additionally, Minister Anthony announced plans to expand pediatric cardiovascular care, emphasizing the importance of this initiative, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through partnerships with organizations like Gift of Life, the ministry aims to conduct more pediatric surgeries, with the goal of completing at least 30 surgeries this year.
Capacity building efforts are also underway, with the construction of Guyana’s first specialized Pediatric and Maternal Hospital and partnerships with institutions like McMasters University.
The one-day symposium focused on developing a comprehensive five-year plan for coronary intervention, addressing gaps in heart failure care, and examining the impact of cardiovascular disease on pregnant women and cardiac pacing in Guyana.
The symposium marks a significant step towards improving cardiac care in the country, with stakeholders coming together to chart a course for enhanced services and better outcomes for cardiac patients.