Remarkable Healthcare Advancements in Region Nine
Lethem, Monday, 18 August 2025.
Region Nine has achieved impressive milestones in healthcare, with over 1,300 surgeries annually and 95% drug availability, marking a significant transformation in medical services.
Strategic Developments in Healthcare Infrastructure
Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), under President Irfaan Ali’s leadership since 2020, has seen unprecedented strides in healthcare infrastructure. Over the past five years, the entire roster of 62 healthcare facilities has been developed, while previously, under the 2015-2020 government of APNU+AFC, only three facilities were established [1]. This transformation includes the construction of four new health posts, 12 health centers, and four state-of-the-art hospitals, significantly enhancing healthcare access [1].
Increased Healthcare Accessibility and Capacity
Under the current administration, Region Nine boasts improved surgical facilities, with an annual throughput of over 1,300 surgeries, compared to fewer than 100 surgeries per year in the past [1]. The remarkable growth in surgical capability is complemented by advancements in neonatal services. The region now fully supports 100% of neonatal cases as opposed to providing no such services between 2015 and 2020 [1]. Furthermore, the access to medications has risen sharply from less than 45% to 95% availability [1].
Educational and Professional Enhancements
The establishment of a Faculty of Medicine by the University of Guyana in Region Nine represents a crucial leap towards educational enhancement, which will serve the dual purposes of educational development and improved healthcare service accessibility in hinterland regions [1]. Additionally, a significant training initiative has added 500 healthcare providers to the workforce since 2020, ensuring a sustainable future for healthcare service delivery [1].
Future Prospects and Strategic Vision
A pivotal aspect of Region Nine’s healthcare transformation is the Lethem Regional Hospital’s upgrade to a 75-bed facility, which intends to drastically reduce the need for patient referrals to distant cities such as Boa Vista, Brazil, and Georgetown. Formerly, the region experienced referral rates to these cities as high as 90% combined, which has now been reduced to a mere 3.7% rate to Boa Vista [1]. The ambitious plans are part of a broader vision to modernize healthcare systems and make these services more universally accessible [1].