Such delays can have serious consequences, particularly for patients who may have cancer. With the opening of a modern Gastroenterology and Hepatology Centre (MDL Centre), the hospital hopes to address this backlog.

A total of USD 390,000 has been invested in new endoscopic equipment, with financial support from PetroChina Investment Suriname BV. The official commissioning and handover of the equipment took place on November 3 at the AZP. The investment is expected to significantly expand the hospital’s diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy capabilities, allowing medical conditions to be detected and treated at an earlier stage.

Managing Director Cynthia Marica- Redan acknowledged that the hospital had lacked sufficient resources for years to provide essential gastrointestinal care. The shortage of adequate equipment resulted in long waiting times, leaving patients suffering from severe pain and persistent symptoms waiting for examinations. According to her, the new facility should help bring an end to this situation. The need is particularly urgent in cases where cancer may be involved. Early detection can be decisive in determining treatment options and patients’ chances of survival. With the new advanced endoscopy tower, supported by three gastroenterology specialists and other staff members, the AZP expects to be able to perform more examinations and procedures safely and reliably. Gastroenterologist Karish Ramlagan emphasized at the opening ceremony that modern equipment alone does not guarantee better healthcare. Sufficient numbers of qualified and dedicated personnel are also essential to fully utilize the technology’s capabilities.

The AZP states that it is the only hospital in Suriname with the facilities to provide complex specialized care under one roof. Patients who require, for example, surgery or intensive care in addition to an endoscopic examination can therefore receive treatment within the same institution. The investment stems from a cooperation agreement signed by the AZP and PetroChina in May. PetroChina General Manager Li Gouyoung expressed satisfaction with the completion of the project, describing the contribution as an investment in the health of the Surinamese population. Staatsolie Director Anand Jagesar and Chinese Ambassador Lin Ji also emphasized the importance of investments in healthcare. Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare and Labour Raj Jadnanansing, who represented President Jennifer Simons, likewise expressed his appreciation for the initiative. Although the new centre represents a significant expansion of healthcare services, the challenge remains to make these services genuinely more accessible. The coming period will show to what extent the additional capacity reduces existing waiting times and allows patients to gain faster access to essential diagnostic examinations and treatment.