Govt to tackle salary disparities in health sector – Pres Ali

…praises rise of young healthcare professionals

President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that the Government is moving to address disparities that emerged during salary adjustments for healthcare workers, while also highlighting the growing role of young professionals in leading Guyana’s health sector. Speaking during a meeting with public health sector leaders at State House on Monday, President Ali said concerns surrounding differences in remuneration among doctors, nurses and consultants are currently under review. “I’ve also said very clearly that the disparities that exist during the salary adjustment in terms of doctors, nurses, consultants, that will be dealt with,” the President stated. Ali explained that a team has already been tasked with examining the issue and that discussions aimed at achieving greater parity across the sector are expected to take place within the next two weeks. The President’s comments come as the Government continues to invest heavily in the healthcare sector and seeks to improve efficiency, accountability and service delivery across the country’s health institutions.
Transformation in leadership structure
During his address, Ali also pointed to what he described as a significant transformation in the leadership structure of the health sector, noting that many management positions are now occupied by younger professionals. According to the Head of State, the shift reflects the Government’s commitment to providing opportunities for young people to assume leadership roles and contribute to national development. “When you look around this table today, all young people. The average age here might be 30, 35 maximum,” he said. “This is a clear indication of young people having an opportunity to make a difference, young people being given leadership, young people being entrusted with responsibility.” The President said the presence of younger leaders across the health sector demonstrates confidence in their ability to manage institutions and help drive reforms within the healthcare system. At the same time, he encouraged them to learn from experienced professionals while bringing the energy, work ethic and service-oriented approach needed to meet the sector’s objectives. Ali urged hospital administrators, regional health officers and other healthcare leaders to work collectively to strengthen public confidence in the health system. He said the Government’s goal is to build a healthcare system that is efficient, transparent, accountable and trusted by the population. “Ensuring that the system is trusted is very, very important for us,” the President said. The President also reminded health sector leaders of the responsibilities that come with their positions, saying the opportunity to lead must be matched by strong performance and a commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to the public.