Antigua and Barbuda’s Cabinet has confirmed that the government will transition from Cuban medical professionals to a newly recruited group of health workers from Ghana, following the completion of a major recruitment drive aimed at strengthening the country’s public health system.
The decision was discussed during Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting, chaired by Acting Prime Minister Sir Steadroy Cutie Benjamin in the absence of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who is off-island.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said Cabinet was advised that the government has completed the recruitment of approximately 120 medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, who are expected to be deployed by the end of the year.
“Cabinet noted the announcement by the Honourable Health Minister during his budget debate contributions that the government has completed the recruitment of approximately 120 medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, to reinforce and sustain the delivery of public health services across Antigua and Barbuda,” Merchant said.
He said the expanded cadre of health workers will allow the government to manage “a smooth, orderly and responsible transition” involving Cuban medical professionals currently working in the country.
“This transition is being undertaken carefully to ensure continuity of care and the uninterrupted provision of essential health services to the population,” Merchant said.
Merchant stressed that the government acknowledges the contribution of Cuban medical workers over the years, particularly during periods of strain on the national health system.
“The government wishes to place on record its deep appreciation for the valuable and constructive role played by Cuban medical workers over the years,” he said, adding that their contribution to healthcare delivery “has been acknowledged with respect and gratitude.”
He said the transition also reflects the government’s broader strategy to build a sustainable, nationally managed health workforce while maintaining positive diplomatic relations with international partners.
“The current recruitment initiative reflects the government’s determination to secure a sustainable, nationally managed health workforce while maintaining constructive and respectful relations with all international partners,” Merchant said.
Merchant said officials from the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre are expected to provide the public with further details on the arrival of the Ghanaian medical professionals and the transition arrangements.