Dr. Karen Cummings Criticizes Declining Healthcare System in Guyana

Georgetown, Guyana – June 15, 2024 – Dr. Karen Cummings, Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Health, has issued a searing critique of the current state of Guyana’s public healthcare system. Highlighting significant deficiencies in service delivery at public medical facilities, Dr. Cummings calls for urgent reforms to address the unacceptable conditions facing citizens seeking medical care.

Dr. Cummings points to the long waiting times at the Georgetown Public Hospital’s emergency room as a key issue. She attributes these delays to inefficiencies in shift handovers by doctors and the healthcare team, as well as incomplete and improper physical examinations of patients. These shortcomings, she argues, contribute to worsening health outcomes and increase the risk of misdiagnoses, particularly among overworked and fatigued physicians.

The APNU+AFC Coalition Government, represented by Dr. Cummings, demands accountability from Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony and the ruling PPP/C Government. With a substantial budget allocation of G$129.8 billion for the health sector in 2024, Dr. Cummings insists that the government must demonstrate tangible improvements in healthcare service delivery, especially in emergency care.

“As the third richest country in the Caribbean and the fastest growing economy, Guyana is expected to provide improved health outcomes for its citizens,” Dr. Cummings stated. “Our citizens deserve a healthcare system that is safe, patient-centered, effective, efficient, equitable, timely, and dignified.”

The APNU+AFC Coalition calls on Dr. Anthony to either implement necessary reforms to enhance the healthcare system or step down if he is unable to seize opportunities for improvement. Dr. Cummings emphasizes the urgency of the situation, advocating for a healthcare system that meets the needs and expectations of all Guyanese citizens.