The Health Ministry will be sending 11 children with life-threatening cardiac problems to Dominica for surgery, as a result of a collaborative effort with the Calgary University and international non-governmental organisation Baby Heart, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.
This decision was made after a team from Calgary University visited and conducted screening for cardiac related illnesses.
The children were chosen from among many diagnosed during this process, owing to the seriousness of their cases.
Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, during a meeting with the children and their families, highlighted that the ministry, along with its two partners, will be financing the surgeries.
He added that the ministry will aid the parents in obtaining their passports, but they will have to undergo the process of acquiring visas.
He also acknowledged that representatives of the three organisations will be conducting post-surgery checks upon the children’s return. Surgeries are expected to begin on January 20.
Meanwhile, the minister highlighted that under a collaborative programme between the ministry and the Calgary University within one year, eight physicians were trained. These doctors are now able to identify the cardiac conditions of local patients.
Also working along with Dr Kishan Narine of Calgary University is Professor Debra Isaacs, both of whom have aided with cardiac issues in a great way, the minister said.
Minister Ramsaran highlighted that they are also offering assistance in other areas such as the setting up of a chronic disease centre.
