The Academic Hospital Paramaribo (AZP) has announced a major modernization initiative for its pediatric care facilities, funded by a $13 million capital injection from TotalEnergies. Hospital Director Claudia Redan revealed that the project will establish a dedicated emergency post for children, separating them from the general Emergency Department where they currently receive treatment.
The announcement came during AZP’s 5-kilometer walk event celebrating the institution’s 60th anniversary. Redan, who completed the entire route herself, emphasized that despite significant challenges including staff shortages and facility limitations, the hospital remains committed to expanding and improving healthcare services.
Government support has been crucial in advancing these improvements. Following a visit from President Jennifer Simons, several stalled projects have been reactivated, including the expansion of the Emergency Department. Additional resources have been allocated for essential medical supplies and steps are being taken toward salary adjustments for staff.
Significant progress has already been made in maternal and child care, with the maternity ward returning to the AZP complex in February after 13 years of operation at the Military Hospital.
The TotalEnergies-funded project, named GranMorgu, will dedicate $10 million of the total investment specifically to AZP’s pediatric department upgrades. ‘We will completely upgrade our children’s ward, with the pediatric emergency post as a central component. Children will no longer need to go to the adult emergency department but will receive care in their own specialized environment,’ Director Redan stated.
The walkathon concluded a series of anniversary activities that included honoring long-serving staff, interfaith prayer services, academic symposiums, and field visits to the Central Market.