The Ministry of Health this week commissioned a state-of-the-art Philips CT 5300 128-slice CT Scanner at the New Amsterdam Hospital. This GY$148M investment marks a major leap in diagnostic capabilities across the East Berbice-Corentyne region.
The newly installed CT 5300 system, the first of its kind in the Caribbean brings advanced AI-powered imaging, dual-energy scanning, and specialised cardiac functionality to the hospital, transforming the diagnostic landscape for patients and clinicians alike.
Equipped with a comprehensive suite of AI-enabled features, including Precise Cardiac, Precise Imaging, and Precise Ribs, the CT 5300 delivers high-speed, high-precision imaging across a wide range of applications such as cardiac care, trauma evaluation, bariatric imaging, and interventional procedures.
Precise Cardiac enhances diagnostic confidence, especially in patients with irregular or high heart rates while Cardiac Essentials enables accurate calcium scoring for early detection of coronary artery disease.
Dual-Energy Scanning supports spectral analysis for differentiating between calcium and uric acid, assisting in complex diagnostic cases.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, at the New Amsterdam Hospital, Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, Minister of Health acknowledged previous challenges due to the outdated two-slice CT scanner, which had been donated by RADAID and was no longer serviceable, with repair costs exceeding GY$15 million. In some cases, patients had to be referred to private facilities, placing a strain on both public funds and patient access.
The Minister highlighted several key healthcare upgrades implemented in the region over the past four years. These include the installation of new digital X-ray units and a mammography machine at the New Amsterdam Hospital, as well as significant investments in upgrading the imaging suites at Port Morant and Mibiquiri Hospitals.
Dr. Anthony also spoke about the ongoing construction of the new New Amsterdam General Hospital, which will feature 220 beds and be equipped with a second CT scanner, MRI capabilities, a catheterization laboratory, and advanced intensive care facilities.
In addition, the Minister underscored the Government’s commitment to strengthening the medical workforce. He noted the current training of 15 emergency physicians in collaboration with Northwell Hospital and the launch of new partnerships with MedVarsity to provide specialized medicine and nursing courses. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to expand training opportunities and ensure a well-equipped and highly skilled healthcare workforce nationwide.
These strategic investments are expected to significantly reduce diagnostic wait times, enhance patient outcomes, and improve access to critical medical imaging services. The introduction of advanced imaging equipment, offering lower radiation doses and higher image quality, will ensure safer and more accurate diagnostic scans for patients across the region.
