Three residents of the community of Princeville, Potaro-Siparuni are to be trained as Community Health Workers (CHWs), according to the Department of Public Information (DPI).
This decision was taken when a government team including Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence visited the Region Eight village.
According to DPI, Lloyd Henrito has been serving as a volunteer in the health sector for nine years in Princeville. Henrito, who is a University of Guyana graduate, trained teacher and retired headmaster, shared with Lawrence his wish to be fully employed with the region’s health department and to continue to give service to his community.
He said that many years ago, he had submitted all the necessary documents needed for his employment. “I’ve worked with the infectious diseases unit and (National AIDS Programme Secretariat), and I have been the unofficial health worker for this village but I have only been a volunteer… twice I sent out my credentials to Georgetown and nothing.”
A decision was taken at the meeting for Henrito to be sent to Georgetown immediately to start a Community Health Worker training course. At the meeting, DPI said that villagers highlighted the need for improved healthcare delivery.
Beginning August 8, the training exercise will run for six months after which Henrito will return to man the health post in Princeville. He will also be accompanied by two other residents who would like to be trained. They will be housed in Georgetown while they undergo the training. Free transportation and meals will be provided for their upkeep, DPI said. In the meantime, Lawrence has arranged for a temporary system to be put in place in Henrito’s absence. Persons attending the clinic will have free transportation once a month to attend the clinic in Mahdia.
