Guyana institutes universal health care vouchers to cover a range of diagnostic tests not covered under the public free care program.
Guyana operates a universal healthcare system where citizens and residents have access to public health facilities at no cost. However, the system is not fully developed, and some specialized services including diagnostic tests, MRI/CT scans (as well as surgeries, and private room accommodations) are not free. The new voucher system, rolled out in March of 2025 aims at addressing a part of this potential financial barrier to access.
The Universal Healthcare Voucher caters for a number of tests that are essential in managing one’s health; it offers a GY$10,000 universal healthcare voucher to every Guyanese. The general screening blood tests include: haemoglobin, lipid profile, liver function, kidney function, urinalysis and thyroid function tests, among others. This voucher system is complemented by other specific programs, for example 40%-70% discounts are available on laboratory tests with certain facilities including some private laboratories and hospitals.
