President Dr. Irfaan Ali has highlighted the remarkable developments in Guyana’s healthcare sector, all thanks to his transformative shift in the financial investment architecture. During a presser yesterday he noted that over the past three years, the annual budget allocated for healthcare has witnessed a significant increase, rising from $35B to an impressive $85B. This remarkable surge he said, reflects a growth rate of nearly 150 percent within this relatively short period.
To provide context to this substantial investment, President Ali urged listeners to recall the situation in 1992 when Guyana’s per capita investment in health stood at less than US$7. At that time, the country allocated a mere US$7 for each Guyanese citizen’s healthcare needs. Fast forward to the present day, and the landscape that has transformed dramatically, Guyana’s per capita investment in health has soared to an impressive US$800.
President Ali stressed that this enhanced financial allocation is a testament to the government’s dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to quality medical services, and fostering a healthier nation overall.
The President also underscored the positive impact that this significant investment will have on Guyana’s healthcare system. He said the augmented budget will allow for the modernization and expansion of medical facilities, the procurement of state-of-the-art medical equipment, and the recruitment and training of additional healthcare professionals. These efforts he said aim to enhance the overall capacity and efficiency of the healthcare sector, ensuring that Guyanese citizens receive comprehensive and world-class medical care.
The President further expressed his gratitude to the healthcare workers who have been instrumental in providing essential services, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged their dedication and emphasized that the increased budget will not only benefit patients but will also prioritize the well-being and professional development of the healthcare workforce.
As Guyana’s healthcare sector undergoes this monumental transformation, President Ali reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of its citizens as Guyana is poised to witness significant advancements in healthcare infrastructure and improved health outcomes for its people.
