The U.S. Air Force medical team in collaboration with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Ministry of Health has embarked on a programme of health care for the public.

Nearly 650 American soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen have arrived in Guyana to participate in what they call ‘New Horizons’ Guyana; a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored annual exercise.

Lt. Col. Marvin Todd of the U.S. Air Force said that the scope of planning for the $9M exercise has taken 18 months to complete.

The health care services to be provided by the team include ophthalmology, scheduled from July 21-31 at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH). Through this programme the Skeldon Hospital will also offer ophthalmology services from July 21-30. From August 17-27, the Linden Hospital Complex will also be offering this service.

Patients in need of dental services will be catered for at the Diamond Secondary School from July 20 to August 27.

Surgical teams will also be available to conduct surgeries at the GPH and do other general medical procedures.

‘New Horizons’ is just one of the missions conducted in Guyana this year. ‘Operation Southern Partner’, a military-to-military exchange programme began on May 31 and ‘Continuing Promise 2009’, a medical mission aboard the USNS comfort medical ship has also visited port Georgetown.

All missions revolve around U.S. Southern Command’s ongoing commitment to security cooperation.

Lt. Col. Todd in his remarks said that, “by sharing experiences, information, vital skills, tactics and techniques, the U.S. builds partnerships with other nations, strengthening friendships in a cooperative environment.

Todd, also the chief medical personnel on the team, said at a press briefing held at Ramphal House yesterday that the exercise is one which seeks to strengthen ties with partner nations in Central and South America through combined quality-of-life improvement projects.

Clinic in La
Penitence area
Lt. Col. John Buse of the U.S. Air Force, also the Chief Engineer on the mission, said that, as of yesterday, a clinic to facilitate patients will be constructed in the La Penitence area and will boast four examination rooms, an office, a waiting room and bathroom, among other amenities. He said also that tele-medicine services will be provided. This 30×90 ft. clinic is expected to be completed by September 10.

Also speaking at the press briefing was Minister within the Ministry of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran who told media operatives that the Health Ministry is honoured to be associated with this venture undertaken by the U.S. Air Force.