Fifteen health care providers on Monday started training as orthopaedic technicians at the Georgetown hospital in keeping with efforts to boost health care services.

According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the programme entails six months theoretical work and three months practical attachments. Trainees were briefed about the programme at an orientation ceremony hosted at the hospital’s multipurpose hall.

GPHC Chief Executive Officer Michael Khan said the course is a capacity building programme and it is one of many that are being offered at the institution. He also said hospitals countrywide are expected to benefit. Khan said too the hospital will be managing other aspects of training the ministry is conducting as soon as space becomes available. He urged the trainees to be punctual and to maintain confidentiality in the work environment.

Meanwhile, Director – Administrative Services Leslie Cadogan said the programme will equip the trainees with skills that will help to develop the health sector and the country. He urged them to dedicate themselves to the programme and to learn as much as they can.

Additionally, orthopaedic consultant David Samaroo told the trainees that on completion of the training some will be required to serve at other hospitals while others will continue to work at the GPHC.