Seventy aspiring healthcare professionals are one step closer to joining the national frontline. They've completed the classroom component of their training through a COSTAATT programme designed to address critical care gaps and now, they're heading into hospitals across the country.
But while their journey is being celebrated, concerns about what happens next were loud and clear.
00:00The halls of CUSDAT were filled with pride as Youth Development Minister Philip Watts met with students who've completed the theoretical phase of the patient care assistance, disability care and emergency medical technician programs.
00:15But alongside the celebration, there was also concern, especially about whether job placements would follow.
00:22Our concern is that we'll be able to get job placements after this wonderful course.
00:30We were just having this same discussion upstairs with the president where when we spend a dollar tax payers money, we need to make sure it makes sense.
00:44We don't want to train students and then you're all home or you leave this country and go abroad to work, which will create a brain drain for us.
00:53So I will be making representation on this cohort behalf.
00:56I will speak to the Minister of Health to see how they can incorporate you all.
01:01Watts praised the program's emphasis on inclusive care, especially for persons with disabilities, and reminded the students that they are joining a noble profession rooted in human dignity.
01:14He also underscored the value of the EMT training and the critical role these young professionals are stepping into.
01:21Through the emergency medical technician program, you are achieving the level of expertise required to respond to medical emergencies and provide essential pre-hospital care to patients.
01:35EMTs are frontline health care providers who play a crucial role in the emergency medical services system, delivering rapid assessment, treatment and transportation of patients to health care facilities.
01:48But the journey ahead won't be easy, Watts said.
01:52He encouraged the students to draw strength from their purpose.
01:56Today, as you continue along this journey, understand that the challenges are ahead.
02:04You will face long days, emotional trauma and tough decision.
02:09But in these moments, focus on your journey and how you started with words that comfort, hands that heal and service that encourages and why you started to be an agent for change.
02:24Custard President, Dr. Keith Nurse, also commended the cohort and highlighted the national need they are helping to fill.
02:31In this regard, you are the front line.
02:36Remember, when we had COVID, we were referring to the nurses and the doctors as being at the front line.
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