The Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, the Hon. Michael Joseph, today met with the management and staff of the Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as part of his ongoing commitment to engage directly with every department within the Ministry.
The meeting was attended by Permanent Secretary Stacey Gregg-Paige, Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Medical Services, Shawn Greenidge and Deputy Director Vermalie Brodie and Brandon Browne, along with members of the EMS management team and staff.
The engagement forms part of the Minister’s pledge to meet with both management and staff to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within each department, while encouraging collaborative solutions that will improve efficiency and strengthen the delivery of services to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
During the discussion, a wide range of issues was raised, including infrastructure, human resources, training and professional development opportunities, remuneration, equipment, and other operational matters affecting the department.
One of the key areas of discussion centred on compensation for EMS personnel. Minister Joseph expressed his willingness to review a proposal from the EMS management team regarding the establishment of a structured salary scale that appropriately recognizes employees based on their qualifications, years of experience, and professional advancement. The proposal also seeks to provide greater incentives for officers who pursue higher levels of emergency medical training, including Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) certification and other specialized qualifications such as Paramedics.
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the department’s leadership and staff to identify practical solutions that will enhance staff welfare, improve operational effectiveness, and ultimately strengthen emergency medical services for the benefit of all citizens and residents of Antigua and Barbuda.
He also thanked the management and staff for their candid contributions during the meeting and acknowledged the invaluable role EMS personnel play in protecting lives and responding to emergencies across the nation.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Minister Michael Joseph Meets with Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Medical Services Staff.