 New $11.4B West Demerara Regional Hospital: A Step Towards Enhanced Healthcare in Guyana
Sod-Turning Ceremony Marks the Beginning of a Modern Healthcare Initiative
On Friday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali officiated the sod-turning ceremony for the new $11.4 billion West Demerara Regional Hospital, marking a significant milestone in Guyana’s healthcare development. This initiative is supported by the United States-based Mount Sinai Health System, with plans to establish a modern oncology center aimed at improving cancer treatment and care within the country.
Collaboration with Hess Corporation
President Ali announced that Hess Corporation, a major player in the oil-rich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, has committed to financing Guyana’s partnership with Mount Sinai for an additional three years. This collaboration will facilitate the establishment of a state-of-the-art oncology center, which will focus not only on diagnostics but also on comprehensive treatment facilities for cancer patients.
Oncology Center and Rehabilitative Care
The upcoming oncology center will be dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and research of cancer, with construction slated to begin this year and completion expected by 2027. In addition, President Ali revealed ongoing discussions with Mount Sinai regarding rehabilitative care. This initiative aims to address the issue of hospital bed occupancy by providing alternatives for patients who require rehabilitation rather than hospitalization.
Modern Healthcare Infrastructure
The new West Demerara Regional Hospital will feature over 150 beds, four operating theatres, and various specialized services, including dermatology, ophthalmology, and cardiology. President Ali emphasized the importance of world-class infrastructure and equipment to support the healthcare system. The hospital will incorporate advanced diagnostic technologies such as MRI, CT scans, and digital imaging.
Integrated Health Management Systems
The government plans to implement an integrated health management and patient management system across Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). This system will link all health centers and hospitals on a common platform, enhancing healthcare delivery. The platform will also connect to national systems in Georgetown and integrate with major healthcare providers in the US and India, providing local doctors access to specialized services.
A Vision for Holistic Healthcare
President Ali expressed his commitment to modernizing and digitizing healthcare in Guyana, stating, “We’re not sleeping. We’re addressing healthcare in a holistic way.†The development of the West Demerara Regional Hospital and the associated healthcare initiatives reflect the government’s dedication to improving health services and ensuring access to quality care for all citizens.
