A new $120 million health centre was commissioned yesterday at Diamond, East Bank Demerara to provide access to primary healthcare services to more than 40,000 persons.
The Department of Public Information (DPI) said that the commissioning was attended by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony; Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud; Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr Gavinash Persaud, and other officials.
Anthony highlighted that a $78 million contract was awarded under the previous administration to construct the centre but it was never completed.
Upon assuming office in August 2020, he said that the government invested some $40 million to ensure the facility could be completed to improve the delivery of health services to persons.
“We were anxiously awaiting the opening of this facility…Now that it is all fixed up, we want to make sure that it is used properly. It is a health centre like any other health centre. So, the services that will be provided would support mothers and children…general services…They must be able to come here and get that level of care…” the health minister said.
“This country is going to be very prosperous. You are already seeing the prosperity. And if we want to enjoy that prosperity, then, we have to live a long and healthy life to enjoy that prosperity,” Dr Anthony stated.
“This facility has been long overdue…This is one of the commitments that we made when we were campaigning in 2020…There are many facilities like this and many hospitals that are going to be built throughout the length and breadth of Guyana…” Minister Persaud emphasised.
He also encouraged members of the public to maintain the facility and to fully utilise the services being offered.
