Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo who underwent heart bypass surgery on Tuesday in a United States-based institution has pulled through his operation with expectations that he would make a full recovery.
According to information contained in a medical bulletin from Minister of State Joseph Harmon, the prime minister’s surgery was a success.
“Prime Minister Nagamootoo is expected to make a full and complete recovery in the coming weeks, before returning to Guyana. Nagamootoo is resting and recovering with Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, his children and other family members by his side,” the bulletin stated.
It was reported on Monday that Nagamootoo required urgent heart bypass surgery. He had recently undergone a routine medical examination in Guyana, and it was revealed that he was suffering from heart-related issues. As such, he was advised to seek further medical intervention, and he brought forward a planned private visit to the United States. He was accompanied on this travel by his wife, Mrs Sita Nagamootoo, and other members of his family.
In the Prime Minister’s absence, Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge is acting in the capacity of prime minister.
Overseas medical treatment
The issue of Government officials seeking treatment overseas rather than at the Georgetown Public Hospital, (GPHC) or even local private hospitals has a long and contentious history.
When in the Opposition, the coalition parties had heavily criticised members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for seeking medical treatment overseas, instead of utilising the national facilities.
However, Government ministers have been flying to Ireland and other overseas territories in a bid to access medical treatment. It has also been disclosed that a health insurance policy has been prepared for Government officials.