Retinal surgery services at GPHC boosted with support from US medical team

See full statement from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation :

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, was proud to welcome a visiting team of ophthalmologists from the U.S. Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) from March 31st to April 11th, 2025. This partnership was instrumental in strengthening the delivery of high-quality ophthalmological care to patients at GPHC, particularly in the area of vitreo-retinal surgery.

The LAMAT team worked closely with GPHC’s Department of Ophthalmology, with a special focus on supporting the evolving Vitreo-Retinal Surgical Services. Retinal Surgeon Dr. Samuel Hobbs from the U.S. Air Force partnered with Dr. Arlene Bobb-Semple, Guyana’s only retinal surgeon, for the full two weeks. Through their combined efforts, approximately 40 patients were able to receive retina surgeries completely free of cost at GPHC.

These advanced procedures addressed critical cases of Advanced Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinal Detachment, and Ocular Trauma. One of the most notable cases was that of a two-month-old baby born with a retinal detachment. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of the surgical and anesthesia teams, the baby was able to undergo a complex procedure aimed at saving at least one eye.

In addition to their hands-on work, the LAMAT team played a key role in mentoring and training local surgeons. They also supplied essential surgical consumables used during the procedures. Two additional eye specialists—Dr. Halward Blegen, Cataract and Anterior Segment Surgeon, and Dr. Sien Chun, Glaucoma Surgeon—collaborated with GPHC’s ophthalmology team on complex cataract and glaucoma surgeries, enhancing the capacity of local services.

The collaboration was made even more impactful by the committed support of GPHC’s eye nurses and technicians, who worked alongside the LAMAT team throughout. On several days, surgical procedures extended well beyond normal hours, with some lasting until midnight—testament to the team’s dedication and patient-centered approach.

As a result of this successful partnership, the Ophthalmology Department at GPHC has significantly advanced its surgical techniques and strengthened its routine practices. The team is enthusiastic about building on this momentum and looks forward to future collaborations that will continue to raise the standard of eye care in Guyana.

GPHC extends heartfelt gratitude to the LAMAT team for their invaluable service and support in advancing ophthalmological care for the people of Guyana.