Guyana’s constitutional commitments to health and environmental wellbeing must be translated into funded programmes, measurable targets and equitable access to care, Professor Daniel Dawes told the opening of the Bethune Round Table 2026.
The conference, which opened on October 14 at the Atlantic Conference Centre, has brought together healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers from 17 countries to discuss improvements in surgical care. It is the first time Guyana has hosted the event since its establishment in 2001, according to a release on the proceedings.
Delivering the keynote presentation on the political determinants of health, Dawes urged delegates to examine how public policy, resource allocation and living conditions influence health outcomes, alongside the provision of hospitals and clinical services.
Dawes, Senior Vice President and Founding Dean of the Meharry Medical College School of Global Health, also challenged the Caribbean to explore establishing a “Blue Zone”—a community associated with exceptional longevity and healthy ageing—through policies that promote healthier lives.
In his feature address, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony outlined Guyana’s ambition to become a leading provider of specialised healthcare in the Caribbean. He emphasised research, innovation and the development of local expertise.
Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Chief Executive Officer Robbie Rambarran said sustained improvements required more than new buildings and equipment. Reflecting on changes at the hospital over the past five years, he stressed the need to integrate technology, infrastructure, education, research and clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
The conference is being held under the theme, “From Training to Surgical Transformation: Advancing Surgical Care through Global Partnerships and Local Innovations.”
Sessions are continuing at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, with discussions covering surgical research, reproductive health equity, digital innovation, patient safety, trauma systems and access to quality healthcare.
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