Board Chair: ‘Zero tolerance’ for inappropriate behaviour by GPHC staff

Former Health Minister and Chairman of the Guyana Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Dr Leslie Ramsammy, has issued a stern warning to staff who fail to perform their duties appropriately at the country’s premier health facility.

The Chairman’s statement comes a day after an investigation into a stillbirth delivery last month recommended the dismissal of a senior doctor and the suspension of two others.

An independent review of the case determined that the doctors involved had failed to adhere to required medical protocols.

In his statement, Dr Ramsammy said the GPHC board will not tolerate inappropriate behaviour from staff, highlighting that the recently concluded stillbirth case revealed that senior staff members at the hospital acted in a manner “inconsistent with their responsibilities”.

“The board insists that where there is evidence of inappropriate behaviour by staff, there will be zero tolerance, and severe consequences will follow,” the Chairman asserted.

He emphasised that the GPHC upholds high standards and expressed appreciation that the vast majority of staff adhere to these expectations.

“By and large, the vast majority of GPHC staff conduct themselves and carry out their responsibilities with compassion and at a high level, consistent with international standards,” he noted.

The Chairman commended GPHC staff for their dedication and high-standard service and praised the hospital’s management for conducting a thorough and swift investigation into the recent case.

Following the investigation, the GPHC expressed regret over the incident and acknowledged the impact on the affected family.