GEORGETOWN, Guyana, (CMC) – Guyana is now embracing drone technology in its public healthcare system to deliver medical supplies to hard-to-reach areas, says the country’s health minister Frank Anthony.

“We’ve tested one of the drones, and it can fly for 150 kilometres. That is something that in the near future we will put to use,” said Anthony on Friday

Drones are part of the programme’s expansion. Once examined and diagnosed, much-needed medical supplies- be it drugs or blood- can be taken into the communities.

IDB Lab, the innovation and venture arm of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), has partnered with 19Labs for this drone initiative. 19Labs is also providing crucial support for the overall telemedicine project in Guyana.

“The cargo hold is 22 pounds, so it can take a lot of things,”  Anthony told Industry residents who attended the sod turning ceremony of the new polyclinic for that community.

This venture is being rolled out as part of the country’s game-changing telemedicine initiative, which allows patients in hinterland communities to engage with healthcare professionals on the coast.

Through computers, internet connectivity, and the support of community health workers, these patients benefit from remote examinations and consultations without having to leave their village.