Regional health officers were urged to exercise greater care and accountability in managing resources in order to deliver the best possible health care.
A Government Information Agency (GINA) press release said these issues, along with discussions on other challenges such as the correct way to report deaths, effective disposal of medical waste, management of medication and projections about the health care system in all ten regions were discussed at the Regional Health Services meeting on Tuesday.
Director, RHS, Dr Narine Singh said that the ministry shares responsibility for the regional health system with the Regional Democratic Council which is an arm of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Administration. He acknowledged that 2011 had been challenging for both ministries though the health ministry had reduced maternal mortality by 50 per cent and it had garnered successes in human resources and infrastructure. However, Dr Singh noted that they were still challenged by improper management of medical supplies.
As such the meeting which was being held under the theme “Strengthening the regional health system through greater accountability” aimed to address these challenges and derive ways of instilling better accountability. He urged the officers to use the available resources to deliver the best health care possible across the regions.
According to Permanent Secretary Leslie Cadogan, the worst problems in the public health system are avoidable as there are resources available to address them in a sustainable manner. He said this includes instances where services were not delivered in a timely manner and the lack of empathy some health workers display. He added that the meeting should address three areas; the essential management and leadership of all projects, improved management of drug supply cycle, and knowledge and experience of effective management of health facilities.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud said despite the challenges the regional health system has come a long way. He explained that as more human resources are injected into the system there will be an increased need for more medication, services and technical support. Dr Persaud noted that the RHS is tasked with steering the ministry, particularly at the regional level, by ensuring that the necessary medical and human resources are available.
He noted that in the coming years more focus must be put on the elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV, as Guyana stands out in its efforts in this area. “Guyana’s vaccination programme is also a good achievement; the country has achieved 98 percent coverage and has in stock over 15 vaccines,” he said.
In his address, Parliamentary Secretary (Health) Joseph Hamilton encouraged the sharing of information regarding health so that a strategy can be drafted that ensures that all citizens benefit from quality health care.
