Guyana: At the Marriott Hotel, the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit hosted a Dissemination Meeting on the Findings of the Evaluation of Mental Health Strategy (2015 – 2020) and the Development of a new Mental Health Plan.
Commenting on the findings of the evaluation conducted on the strategy that is currently under review, Honourable Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony referred to the need for updated legislation to govern mental health-related issues in Guyana.
The Minister informed that the Mental Health Bill is a top priority on the current Administration’s agenda and therefore the Legislation is expected to be tabled during the next Sitting of the National Assembly.
He added that the National Suicide Prevention Bill is currently being drafted and will be presented in the National Assembly shortly.
Dr Anthony emphasised the need for thorough clinical evaluations which will aid in correctly diagnosing and treating patients with mental health illnesses.
Also in attendance at yesterday’s meeting were PAHO/WHO Representative to Guyana, Dr Luis Felipe Codina; Director of Non- Communicable Diseases and Mental Health, Dr Lachmie Lall; Chief Medical Officer, Dr Narine Singh and Coordinator- Mental Health Unit, Dr Timothy Morgan.
