By Samuel Gillis
In Region Three, efforts to enhance healthcare services are well underway, with significant improvements taking place at the West Demerara Regional Hospital.
Dr. Erica Forte, the Regional Health Officer, provided an update on these developments, shedding light on the ongoing initiatives aimed at better serving the community.
One prominent upgrade is the construction of a new mortuary within the hospital compound.
This modern facility will feature space for autopsies, a dedicated prayer room, and an area for families to view their departed loved ones.
Dr. Forte emphasized that beyond medical considerations, the objective is to create a comforting environment for families during times of loss, accommodating various religious and financial circumstances.
Additionally, the hospital is investing in the procurement of equipment for laparoscopic surgeries, representing an investment of eight million dollars.
This technology will enable minimally invasive procedures in the abdomen or pelvis area, resulting in shorter surgery and recovery times.
Training sessions for medical staff on the use of this equipment are scheduled to take place soon, ensuring that the hospital can offer advanced surgical care locally.
Moreover, significant improvements have been made to the hospital’s surgical services.
The facility has transitioned from operating theatres functioning only during specific hours to providing round-the-clock surgical care.
This expansion of services has led to a notable reduction in referrals to the Georgetown Public Hospital, demonstrating the hospital’s capacity to meet the healthcare needs of the region more comprehensively.
These developments underscore the commitment of the West Demerara Regional Hospital to continually enhance its facilities and services, ultimately improving healthcare accessibility and quality for residents of Region Three and beyond.