By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News|
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — Guyana’s healthcare capacity received a massive boost on Monday as the 2026 Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) mission officially commenced. This year’s mission, the third of its kind in Guyana, is being hailed as the largest to date, featuring an 89-member team of U.S. medical professionals set to operate across multiple regions simultaneously.
The mission was launched during an opening ceremony attended by Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony and John Crippen, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy.
A Nationwide Reach
In a significant expansion from previous years, the 2026 mission will decentralize its services, bringing specialized care and surgical procedures to six major medical facilities:
- Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)
- Diamond Regional Hospital
- West Demerara Regional Hospital
- De Kinderen Regional Hospital (New Facility Integration)
- Linden Hospital Complex
- Cheddi Jagan Dental School
Strengthening the System: Training and Collaboration
While the immediate goal is to reduce surgical backlogs and provide essential care, Minister Frank Anthony emphasized that the long-term value lies in knowledge transfer.
“We really want to see many more training opportunities here in Guyana. Having prestigious U.S. universities and teams working with our local staff can only help to strengthen our national healthcare architecture.” — Dr. Frank Anthony
Commander of the LAMAT Mission, Theodore Liszeski, echoed these sentiments, noting that the goal is “collective readiness” for global health challenges. The mission isn’t just about U.S. doctors treating Guyanese patients; it’s a two-week exchange of expertise between professionals.
The LAMAT Mission: Fast Facts (March 2026)
| Feature | Details |
| Team Size | 89 US Medical Professionals |
| Duration | March 16 to March 27, 2026 |
| Focus Areas | General Surgery, Dental Care, Emergency Medicine, Training |
| Partner Institutions | Ministry of Health & US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) |
A Pillar of Diplomatic Relations
U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission John Crippen underscored that the LAMAT mission is a tangible example of the United States’ enduring commitment to Guyana. By bolstering the capacity of partner nations, the U.S. aims to ensure regional stability through health security.
This mission arrives at a critical time as the Ministry of Health works to modernize regional hospitals and introduce advanced technology into the public sector.
