Ministry of Health Hosts Prosthetic Training Programme at Ptolemy Reid Centre

The Ministry of Health’s Rehabilitation and Disability Services, in collaboration with Prosthetika Corporation, hosted a one-week practical training programme for prosthetists, technicians, and therapists at the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre in Georgetown. This initiative is part of an ongoing partnership aimed at enhancing prosthetic services in Guyana, as stated in a release by the Ministry of Health.

For the past five years, Prosthetika has supported the Ministry’s efforts to improve local prosthetic care, with the latest session focusing on cutting-edge prosthetic technologies. The training enabled specialists to create lighter, better-fitting, and more efficient prosthetic devices, which significantly enhance patient mobility and comfort.

A total of 16 individuals received new prosthetic devices, including both upper and lower-limb prostheses. A key highlight of the programme was the successful development of a myoelectric arm—a highly functional prosthetic that improves movement. This state-of-the-art device was fitted for a patient, Mr. Ramchitath, marking a major step forward in local prosthetic capabilities.

Dr. Ariana Mangar, a leading figure in the Ministry’s Rehabilitation and Disability Services, emphasised the importance of continuous staff training. “Over the last five years, Prosthetika has helped us train our staff in the latest prosthetic technologies. This allows us to create prostheses that are lighter, better fitting, and more efficient, ensuring patients get the best possible fit,” Dr. Mangar explained in the statement.

The training also provided an opportunity for greater collaboration between prosthetic and orthotic personnel, further enhancing national rehabilitation capacity. This collaboration is crucial as it strengthens the country’s ability to provide high-quality prosthetic solutions for individuals with limb loss.

One of the programme’s beneficiaries, 48-year-old Ayeni Olutunde, a father of two and member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), shared his gratitude for the support provided. “As an amputee, I came here for some adjustments to my prosthetics. I’m really glad to know that people like me can regain mobility. This programme is a great initiative, and while there’s always room for improvement, things will continue to get better,” said Olutunde.

He added, “The fact that someone can receive a prosthetic and be rehabilitated to live independently again is a huge step forward.”

Equipping professionals with advanced skills and knowledge aid in improving the quality of life for individuals with limb loss across Guyana.