Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Michael Joseph, recently led a high-level delegation to Barbuda as part of ongoing efforts to assess and strengthen healthcare delivery and public health infrastructure on the sister island.
The visit forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to ensuring that no aspect of the healthcare system is overlooked, including the needs and priorities of Barbuda.
Minister Joseph emphasized that a comprehensive three-month assessment will be undertaken in its entirety before implementation measures are introduced, thereby allowing for a detailed evaluation of the health sector and the development of a strategic and inclusive national healthcare framework.
During the visit, the delegation toured the Hanna Thomas Hospital, the Barbuda Health and Wellness Centre, and the dental department, where discussions were held with healthcare personnel regarding existing operations, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
The Minister reiterated that Barbuda remains integral to the overall build-out of the nation’s health sector and long-term healthcare strategy.
The delegation also discussed the need to strengthen emergency response capabilities on the island, including provisions for an ambulance for Barbuda.
In addition to the healthcare facilities, the Minister and delegation visited the Barbuda landfill site as part of the Ministry’s continued focus on environmental health, sanitation, and public wellness.
Members of the delegation included Permanent Secretary within the Ministry, Stacey Gregg-Paige; Senator Kendra Beazer; Chairman of the Health Committee, Mr. Devon Warner; Deputy Chairman of the Health Committee, Mr. Wayde Burton; Secretary/CEO, Ms. O. Shari Cannegieter; Head of the Health Department, Mrs. Karie Williams-Cephas; Resident Doctor, Dr. Jeremy Deazle; and Public Health Nurse, Nurse Jenita Cuffy.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs remains committed to advancing equitable healthcare access and improving the quality of health services for all residents of Antigua and Barbuda.