Govt. summons regions’ health officials over appalling situation

Apr 13, 2018 News

At the head table (from left to right) Permanent Secretary Ministry of Communities Emil McGarrell; Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence; and the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Communities Colette Hicks

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communities, yesterday convened a meeting with regional health officials and Regional Executive Officers (REOs) of Regions Two, Three, Six, Seven and Ten to address the issues affecting them.
The discussion, which took place on Thursday afternoon dealt with issues relating to regional administrative shortcomings and their effects on the health sector.
These included Human Resource and employment matters, inadequate and improper provision of living quarters for medical professionals, the process involving the purchasing of emergency drugs and medical supplies, the non-payment of suppliers and incomplete and inaccurate details being provided through Logistic Management Information Systems (LMIS) reports for some regions
Additionally, according to a government statement, the Minister said that the unprofessionalism of medical and administrative staff in these regions, especially at regional and district hospitals is appalling and must be looked into.

The gathering of Regional Officials with the Minister of Public Health shortly after the meeting was convened.

Minister Lawrence said these issues affect the overall provision of health care and require urgent intervention.
Acknowledging much of these issues fall under the purview of regional administration and the Ministry of Communities, the Minister noted there is a need for stricter monitoring of resources and prudent management of the sector.
There are plans for the Health Minister to visit each of the respective regions in order to receive updates and “tighten loose ends” relating to the matters identified. The overall goal of the intervention seeks to ensure that the entire public health sector runs smoothly, ensuring all persons in Guyana continue to access quality health care.