Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph says government investment in human capital is strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare system, with more local medical professionals receiving advanced training and an increase in specialist doctors at the country’s main public hospital.

Sir Molwyn said several doctors are currently on study leave, pursuing training in key specialty areas to meet the needs of the health sector.

He noted that the number of specialist doctors at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has more than doubled, rising from 65 in 2014, when the Gaston Browne administration took office, to 151 at present.

According to the minister, 99 of the current specialists are Antiguans and Barbudans. He said this reflects the results of sustained government investment in training and developing local medical professionals, aimed at strengthening the long-term capacity of the healthcare system.