By June 2025, approximately 300 health facilities across Guyana are set to be connected to Starlink, significantly enhancing telemedicine services nationwide.
This announcement was made by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, during a graduation ceremony in Lethem, Region Nine, last Saturday.
Starlink, a satellite-based internet service, is being leveraged to improve healthcare delivery, especially in remote regions. Currently, 53 telemedicine sites are operational with Starlink, and there are plans to increase that number to 85 by the end of the year, exceeding 100 by 2025.
“We are collaborating with the Prime Minister’s office, which facilitates the Starlink connection for government agencies, and we aim to connect at least 300 health facilities across the country by June of next year,” the minister stated. He emphasized the ultimate goal of equipping nearly all health facilities in each region with telemedicine capabilities.
This advanced technology promotes efficient and expansive healthcare services, particularly in hinterland areas, allowing health professionals in remote locations to consult with city counterparts, thereby assisting in patient diagnosis and treatment.
A telemedicine site in Guns Village, Region Nine, exemplifies these services. Telemedicine enables real-time medical data sharing, allowing remote professionals to access the same information as on-site staff and to facilitate electronic medical transfers when necessary.
Minister Anthony encouraged new healthcare workers to embrace these technological advancements. “I hope that those joining the health sector are proficient in using a computer. If not, we will provide training because this skill is essential,” he remarked.
Telemedicine initiatives were launched in 2022 in various hinterland communities, including Nappi, Yupukari, and Masakenari. This innovation is crucial in transforming Guyana’s healthcare system, bridging the gap between remote and coastal areas.
