Japan Donates Ambulances to Western Regional Hospital to Boost Emergency Response

This morning, the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan saw the addition of two new ambulances to its fleet, thanks to the generous donation from the Embassy of Japan in Belize. The vehicles were provided under the Grassroots Human Security and Cultural Projects, a program aimed to enhance community and infrastructure and services. Minister of Health, Kevin Bernard, noted that the donation will greatly enhance the hospital’s ability to respond to emergencies in a timely manner.

Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health and Wellness: “These initiatives definitely aligns with what were the commitment in achieving our sustainable development goals, which focuses on ensuring that we have good health in our communities, access to care, and at the same time these ambulances will definitely help to bridge the gap that currently exists. As I was asking the hospital administrator a while ago this will now add to the fleet and give us at least four ambulances that will be able to cover this area.”

The addition of the vehicles come as a much-needed resource in the Western region, which has seen an increase in demand for emergency services. Western Regional Health Manager, Dr. Franelda Gutierrez, elaborated on the impact the donation is expected to have. 

Dr.Frandela Gutierrez, Western Regional Hospital Manager: “These ambulances are more than just vehicles. To the staff of the Western Regional Hospital, there are significant enhancement in our ability to deliver quality healthcare. With increased response capacity we are better equipped to address mass casualties and other emergency situations. These ambulances will provide safer and timelier transportation. They will contribute to improved management and intervention times, and they will increase efficiency, effectiveness, and continuity of care. This collaboration with the Western Region started in 2022, and between then and today we have taken numerous steps that have required careful review, thoroughness, and detail. And throughout this process, they have offered dedication and close attention to seeing the grant through.”

The ceremony took place on the hospital’s compound, making the official transfer of the ambulances.