Dialysis machines donated to GPHC and private hospital
In Friday, eight kidney dialysis machines were gifted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) as well as two more to the St Joseph Mercy Hospital by The Division of Nephrology and Hypertension at the University of Vermont’s Medical School.
The handing over ceremony for the 10 machines valued at US$40,000 (GY$8 million) was conducted at the GPHC Kidney Dialysis Centre, by Dr J R Deep Ford, who is also a former Professor of the United States’ Medical
Three of the dialysis machines received from the University of Vermont’s Medical School
School.
According to Ford, this donation was initiated by a conversation between a group of Guyanese early in 2015, about the health system in Guyana, where the need for more dialysis machines was highlighted. He explained that a participant in that conversation was a Professor of Nephrology at the medical school, Dr Virgina Hood, and he identified her as the main architect in selecting and coordinating the donation of the machines.
It is expected that the machines will significantly amplify the competence of Guyana’s health system by enabling it to serve many citizens suffering from damaged, dysfunctional or missing kidneys.
In expressing his appreciation toward the generous donation by the University of Vermont’s Medical School, Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton noted that it will be of significant assistance to GPHC’s dialysis treatment.
“The GPHC Dialysis Centre continues to provide this life-saving procedure free of cost. However, there still exists a need to further build the capacity of the centre, and the Ministry of Public Health is committed to ensuring that this is done. We cannot do this alone, and therefore we are grateful for the support of the University of Vermont’s Medical School with the donation of eight dialysis machines,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St Joseph Mercy Hospital, Helen Browman, also voiced her gratitude upon receiving the medical machines.
The Georgetown Public Hospital’s Kidney Dialysis Centre has been active for four years, where both Peritoneal and Haemodialysis is offered.
