Over 600 persons successfully treated at the Stadium - Ramsammy

Kaieteur News
April 13, 2007

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More than six hundred persons were successfully treated during the six Super Eight matches recently held at the Guyana National Stadium.

Describing the health sector's performance as commendable, Health Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy said the sector was able to provide quality service to those who needed it at the various CWC-related venues, without diminishing regular service at institutions.

While there were no major health catastrophes, the outposts at the stadium saw a regular flow of patients accessing treatment for minor problems.

This included conditions such as hypertension Asthma attacks and mild dehydration.

“There were no real serious injuries, but spectators took advantage of the medical facilities on site and that was good. That was what we were there for and we were just glad that there were no serious injuries to anyone.”

One player sought medical attention for an injury to the leg, the Minister reported.

Additionally three patrons had to be rushed from the stadium to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The three ambulances on site responded promptly and efficiently to these perceived emergencies.

According to the Minister, one person sustained a fall and was sent to the hospital to seek medical attention for a possible fracture. However this was not the case.

And, an elderly gentleman who had suffered a stroke some time ago was rushed to the hospital after he complained of feeling unwell during a game.

A child also developed a high fever during one of the fixtures and was also transferred to the GPHC, treated and sent home.

Minister Ramsammy was high in praise for the performance of the numerous health personnel who manned the facility.

“People only pay attention to these nurses and doctors when something goes wrong, but they performed with such high quality during the matches that all of Guyana benefited and should be proud… things were well organized and everything went smoothly.”

During the games, the stadium was outfitted with a main medical centre for serious illnesses, and another which catered to the Teams, Officials and Media and Sponsors.

A mobile medical outpost which was specifically focused on the patrons on the mound, was also on hand.

This is in addition to the health posts positioned at each of the stands.

A number of health personnel were also integrated in the stands among the spectators.

The medical response capacity was boosted by nurses from Trinidad . They were stationed at the Intensive Care Unit of the GPHC.

Two doctors from the United States were also part of the team and assisted with the disease surveillance program which was conducted in collaboration with CAREC during the matches.

The Minister also reported good compliance from food outlets with regards to preparation, storage and service.