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By Mark DaCosta- In a significant stride for healthcare education in the Caribbean, the University of Guyana (UG) has introduced a Bachelor of Science Degree in Respiratory Care (BSRC). This initiative, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), positions Guyana as the first nation in the region to offer such a specialised programme.
The BSRC programme was developed in an impressive 11 months. Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, highlighted the programme’s launch at Herdmanston Lodge, emphasising the importance of such initiatives in bolstering the nation’s healthcare capabilities. Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Anthony noted that Guyana’s healthcare system was ill-prepared for such a crisis, underscoring the need for trained respiratory therapists to address similar challenges in the future.
The introduction of this degree is a crucial step towards strengthening Guyana’s healthcare infrastructure. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in managing patients with chronic respiratory conditions, as well as those affected by acute health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. These professionals are trained to handle a variety of conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tuberculosis, congenital issues like deformed lungs, and the impacts of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and other epidemics.
“Having a dedicated programme for respiratory care was a natural progression for our healthcare system,” said Dr Anthony. “We expedited this course to ensure that we can train professionals and integrate them into our system swiftly. This initiative reflects our commitment to preparing our future healthcare professionals to make a meaningful difference.”
The BSRC programme aims to attract and train individuals passionate about respiratory therapy, equipping them with the necessary skills to respond effectively to both current and future global health challenges. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training in respiratory care, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Students will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on training at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Guyana’s healthcare system has faced numerous challenges over the years, from infectious diseases like tuberculosis to the long-term impacts of chronic illnesses such as COPD. The introduction of the BSRC programme is a proactive measure to address these issues, ensuring that our country is better prepared for the future. By training a new generation of respiratory therapists, Guyana is taking a significant step towards improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for skilled respiratory care professionals. Countries around the world struggled to manage the influx of patients requiring respiratory support, and Guyana was no exception. The establishment of the BSRC programme is a direct response to this need, aiming to build a robust healthcare workforce capable of tackling similar crises in the future.
In addition to addressing acute health emergencies, the programme will also focus on managing chronic respiratory conditions, which are prevalent in Guyana. Conditions like COPD and asthma require ongoing management and care, and trained respiratory therapists are essential in providing this support. The BSRC programme will equip students with the skills needed to deliver high-quality care to patients with chronic conditions, improving their quality of life and reducing the burden on the healthcare system.
Furthermore, the programme’s emphasis on practical training ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also experienced in applying their skills in real-world settings. This approach is crucial in preparing students to meet the demands of the healthcare industry and provide effective care to patients.
As Guyana continues to advance its healthcare system, the introduction of the BSRC programme marks a significant milestone.
