The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs remains steadfast in its commitment to establishing a dedicated Sickle Cell Unit to provide comprehensive care for persons affected by sickle cell disease. As part of the ongoing progress toward this goal, Minister of Health Sir Molwyn Joseph, Junior Minister Senator Michael Joseph, Director of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre Dr. Shivon Belle-Javis, and President of the Antigua and Barbuda Sickle Cell Association Dr. Edda Hadeed recently conducted a site visit to the future unit location at the IDC facility.
During the visit, the delegation toured the interim site, which is planned to include five patient rooms, a consultation room, and a staff room—supporting primarily daytime inpatient management. The unit will be staffed by specially trained physicians, nurses, and clerical personnel who will receive focused training locally and through international collaborations.
The group also visited a nearby workshop where sickle cell patients were engaged in craft activities that provide therapeutic engagement and income opportunities. Plans are underway to showcase these crafts during upcoming cultural events such as Art Week and Heritage Quay, fostering patient empowerment and community awareness.
Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph reiterated the Government’s dedication: “Our administration is committed to enhancing healthcare services for all Antiguans and Barbudans. The establishment of this Sickle Cell Unit is a key priority, and we are making steady progress to ensure that persons affected by sickle cell disease receive the care and support they deserve. I also encourage all Antiguans and Barbudans to learn more about this dreadful disease. It is associated with excruciating pain and suffering. Join the fight to create a holistic response of treatment, with care and understanding.”
Dr. Shivon Belle-Javis highlighted the comprehensive approach envisioned for the unit: “This Sickle Cell Unit will be more than a pain management center; it will provide education, preventative care, and anticipatory guidance to improve patients’ quality of life through compassionate and holistic care.”
This initiative reflects the Ministry’s ongoing focus on improving healthcare access and outcomes for the sickle cell community in Antigua and Barbuda.