The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Mohawk College in Canada, has officially launched a Sonography Training Programme designed to enhance imaging services across the country. The programme was introduced at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health’s Conference Room, marking a significant milestone for allied healthcare professionals in Guyana’s public healthcare sector.
This one-year training initiative will equip participants with the necessary skills in sonography, enabling them to perform image acquisition and analysis.
The programme aims to optimise clinical workflows and enhance service delivery, particularly in remote areas where access to specialised healthcare remains limited.
Fifteen persons from the various regions across the country are set to begin their their hybrid approach training programme on March 29.
During his address at the launch, the Minister of Health, Honourable Dr Frank Anthony underscored the programme’s pivotal role in strengthening diagnostic capabilities and expanding access to high-quality imaging services nationwide.
“This programme addresses a critical gap in our healthcare system by training a new generation of sonography professionals who will support physicians in providing timely and accurate diagnostic services,” he said.
He further explained that the programme is timely and therefore falls in line with the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to modernise imaging technology, including the transitioning from analogue to digital X-ray systems for all public hospitals.
An initiative which he says is integral to the administration’s broader commitment to enhancing patient care.
According to the Minister, the Health Ministry has been working closely with Mohawk College for nearly a year to bring the programme to fruition, citing the institution’s esteemed reputation in medical technology training.
He also outlined the Ministry’s long-term vision for diagnostic services, which includes plans to integrate sonography capabilities across all hospitals nationwide.
Furthermore, the Minister highlighted the Ministry’s continued focus on training and capacity-building in medical imaging, with future expansions into CT and MRI technology as part of the ongoing healthcare infrastructure development.
The launch event was attended by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Narine Singh; Director of Standards & Technical at the Ministry of Health, Ms. Laura Thomas; Associate Dean of Medical Imaging and Academic Director at Mohawk College, Mrs. Megan Jefferson; as well as other healthcare officials.
Mrs. Megan Jefferson, Associate Dean of Medical Imaging and Academic Director at Mohawk College, delivers background information on Mohawk College.
Honourable Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony addresses attendees at the launch of the Sonography Training Programme.