Guyana is making significant strides with the HEARTS in the Americas initiative, led by the World Health Organisation (WHO), with approximately 20,471 patients with hypertension currently integrated into the programme.
These patients now have access to more comprehensive care at their local health centres, Dr. Lachmie Lall, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Unit told Ignite News.
Launched in Guyana in 2022, the project is currently available at 216 sites nationwide. It aims to promote the adoption of global best practices for preventing and controlling cardiovascular diseases (CVD) by improving the management of high blood pressure (BP). Its primary focus is on primary health care facilities.
According to Dr. Lall, the initiative introduced new medications and utilises an algorithm to manage hypertension patients. This step-based system enables healthcare practitioners to diagnose, treat, and monitor patients without relying on secondary facilities, allowing for better case management.
The Hearts in the Americas initiative is part of Global Hearts, a WHO-led programme involving various international stakeholders. The Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) oversees its implementation in the Americas, ensuring alignment with the region’s strategic priorities.
These include universal health coverage, strengthening primary care-based health systems, and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, particularly those related to the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
HEARTS is currently being implemented and expanded in 33 countries across the region, covering 6,052 health centres that serve approximately 39 million adults in their respective catchment areas.
