Health Minister stands by embattled RHO

HEALTH Minister Dr Frank Anthony remains unmoved despite an avalanche of complaints
against Regional Health Officer (RHO) Dr Steven Chefoon who oversees the sector in
Barima/Waini (Region One).
Many have been griping to Dr Anthony about alleged unacceptable ways Chefoon has been
executing his role and responsibleness to Barima/Waini residents and his colleague healthcare
professionals.
Anthony, so far, is backing his RHO. The Minister’s support for Chefoon has baffled now
angry medical professionals and some have threatened to either leave the sector while others
have sought transfers according to usually reliable sources who spoke to
www.aroudtheregions.com on conditions of anonymity.
Procurement of goods by Chefoon in the interior region has raised several eyebrows. The
embattled RHO allegedly told his administrative officials that he was purchasing crocs for
healthcare professionals stationed at Moruca. When the supplies arrived some of the boxes
contained numerous high-end cell phones.
“He indicated that he was purchasing 100 crocs but when we checked some of the boxes, we
found that several cell phones were purchased instead (of the much-needed crocs). This is
evidence of corruption and something has to be done immediately. It begs the question as to who
is facilitating this level of corruption within the Region (and) we want answers. We hope that the
investigation will provide the answers,” a doctor within the Region said.
RHO Chefoon is still being blamed for the malfeasance.
With no investigation yet launched into their claims, Minister Anthony, for now, is instead
focusing on the efficiency with which the RHO is managing the 7,900 square mile Region and its
27,000 residents.

“As far as I am aware, he is doing a good job in Region One and we will continue to work with
him,” the Minister stated.
Controversies seem to follow Dr Chefoon who was also the RHO in Mahaica/Berbice, (Region
Five) where he was found guilty for his involvement in an issue. The Medical Council’s
investigation warranted discipline and removal of Chefoon from the Region.
“As far as I recall action was taken (by the Medical Council) so once he has completed whatever
action the Medical Council deemed fit…it's ok for him to continue doing his work,” the Health
Minister emphasised.