Citizens must support health sector initiatives - Ramsammy
Stabroek News
April 10, 2007
Minister of Health Dr Leslie Ramsammy called on non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to join with the government and its partners in investing in the health sector at the Wednesday launch of World Health Day observances.
The Government Information Agency (GINA) quoted Ramsammy as saying everyone has a role to play in the development of the health sector and urging citizens to join with the government to create a healthier environment. The ceremony, which was held at the Enmore Polyclinic, East Coast Demerara, featured a mini-exhibition on safe and preventative health practices. World Health Day was observed on Saturday under the theme 'Invest in health, build a safer future', which Ramsammy said, reflects the government's continued investment in the health sector and plans to train more professionals to boost it this year.
GINA said the Enmore Polyclinic has been in operation for several years and renders medical assistance to more than 3,000 persons monthly. The minister said it was the first of its kind. It offers several critical services including dental, voluntary counselling and testing for HIV and treatment for tuberculosis. Plans are also in train to introduce an eye clinic, an X-ray department and HIV and AIDS treatment at the clinic.
Meanwhile, Pan America Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Country Representative, Dr Kathleen Israel, in her speech at the launch, said the government alone cannot ensure that there is adequate investment in the health sector but needs the support of the community and every Guyanese. She pledged PAHO/WHO's continued assistance to Guyana particularly in the health sector and later presented the Enmore Primary School with waste disposal bins as part of the Health Promoting Schools Initiative it is executing in collaboration with the health and education ministries.
Other invitees at the ceremony included Chief Executive Officer at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Michael Khan, Dr Julian Amsterdam of the hospital's Malaria Clinic and First Lady Varshnie Jagdeo.
GINA said the health ministry is hosting blood drives countrywide through various organisations and ministries as part of this year's observances.