The government has firmly dismissed recent claims by Aubrey Norton, leader of the APNU, asserting that Guyana’s hospitals are “empty” and critically lacking in medical equipment. Officials described Norton’s statements, made during a public meeting at Bagotville, West Bank Demerara, as wholly unfounded and misleading.
Health ministry representatives and independent observers insist that hospitals across the country remain fully operational and well-equipped to manage patient needs. Contrary to Norton’s narratives, key health facilities continue to offer a broad range of clinical services and have not experienced the alleged shortages or lack of activity.
Government spokespersons pointed to routine audits, daily admissions, and continued investments in public health infrastructure as evidence that hospital wards are neither unstaffed nor devoid of essential medical apparatus. Ministry officials further noted that the administration has implemented ongoing upgrades in equipment procurement and distribution—a move reflected in new diagnostic tools, additional ICU beds, and expanded inventory for frontline workers.
Local medical professionals echoed these views, highlighting the steady flow of patients and ongoing treatment across public health sites. “The suggestion that our hospitals are ‘empty’ or unequipped simply does not match the reality for staff and families who rely on these services daily,” a senior official commented.
The Ministry of Health has also underscored its continued focus on transparency, regular public reporting, and commitment to further enhancing hospital resources. Citizens are encouraged to visit health facilities to observe operations firsthand, rather than rely on “misinformation that undermines trust and confidence in the system.”
As the debate continues, officials reiterated their invitation to public figures to tour hospital campuses, meet with clinical staff, and view ongoing operations—confident that such visits would dispel persistent myths about the state of Guyana’s health sector.
