The Ministry of Health has refuted claims made by Lemmel Thomas, President of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), regarding an alleged health crisis and institutional discrimination. Thomas presented his claims at a recent United Nations meeting on April 21, 2026. He described challenges faced by indigenous communities, including difficulties accessing healthcare and youth suicide. He also linked the extractive industry to health issues, accusing the government of cultural exclusion. The Ministry of Health responded by accusing the APA of hindering healthcare advancements, specifically mentioning the stalled construction of a hospital in Kamarang, which was reportedly blocked after the APA discouraged community approval. The Ministry stated that the hospital would have provided specialized care and created jobs. It also highlighted a $21.2 billion (GYD) investment in hinterland infrastructure between 2020 and 2026, which included renovations and construction of healthcare facilities and telemedicine sites.