Work advances on Region 10 medical simulation centre

Work on the Linden, Region 10 medical simulation centre is advancing and will significantly enhance training for healthcare professionals across the region when completed.
Speaking during a site visit, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony said hybrid training is an approach which is currently ongoing, as trainees complete theoretical lessons online before attending in-person practical sessions at the centre.
He said simulation centres are being built in all ten regions to support this approach.

“To make sure that every region got the capability of doing this, we have been building these simulation centres. So, they go online, they do all the theory online, and then after every module, they are required to do some practical training. We would then be able to bring them into a centre like this,” the health minister noted.
Dr. Anthony noted that about one thousand nurses are currently in training under the hybrid model and will use facilities like the one under construction.

Upon completion, the centres will be outfitted with equipment to allow hands-on practice and reinforce theoretical learning.
“Once this is completed, you will have mannequins, you will have all kinds of other props that could be used to do the practical training. And so it makes it easier for the person to understand and to practice what they have learned theoretically,” Dr. Anthony said.
Though there have been some challenges, the health minister said the Region 10 centre will be completed within the next few months.
“This particular site, I’m told, had some challenges because we’re next to the GWI (Guyana Water Inc.). You’ve got the treatment plant, and because of that, there were some underlying pipes that were below this place. They had to spend some time relocating those pipes, but I think we’ve been able to fix that. So, there is no reason why in another few months they shouldn’t have this facility,” he explained.