PARAMARIBO – Suriname’s healthcare sector faces a temporary setback as the newly installed kidney stone crusher at the Academic Hospital Paramaribo (AZP) is operating below capacity due to a technical incompatibility. Health Minister André Misiekaba confirmed the operational challenges during a session of the National Assembly, responding to inquiries from legislator Ivanildo Plein of the National Party of Suriname (NPS).
The core issue, as detailed by the minister, stems from the supplier providing an incorrect ultrasound device during the installation process last month. This critical component was found to be non-compatible with the lithotripsy system’s core technology, severely limiting its functionality. Consequently, medical staff can only perform the non-invasive kidney stone procedures through improvisation and solely for patients in acutely urgent cases, exacerbating existing lengthy waiting lists.
Hospital administration anticipates a resolution by the conclusion of February, with expectations for the advanced medical equipment to then achieve full operational status. Minister Misiekaba publicly appealed for patience from affected patients and the general public, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to resolving the supply chain error promptly. “We expect optimal crushing operations to resume within a fortnight,” the minister assured legislators, highlighting the short-term nature of the disruption despite its significant current impact on urological services.