Efforts to enhance healthcare in St. Kitts and Nevis were brought to the fore last week through a series of significant events and contributions aimed at modernising the health sector. As the government continues to prioritise healthcare, initiatives are being undertaken to expand diagnostic capabilities, foster professional development, and strengthen regional partnerships.
On 11th October, the 37th Pooled Procurement Service (PPS) Policy Board Meeting and the 10th OECS Council of Ministers of Health meetings in Dominica concluded. The events brought together health officials and leaders from across the region under the theme, Beyond Borders: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Change in Healthcare Access and Delivery.
St. Kitts and Nevis was represented by Curtis Martin, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health.
The meetings focused on bolstering regional collaboration, addressing healthcare access challenges, and enlisting support from development partners to ensure sustainable improvements in healthcare delivery across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
On 8th October, a major step was taken toward improving local healthcare services with the Social Security Board’s donation of two cutting-edge endoscopy machines and two colonoscopy machines to the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital. This contribution demonstrates the Social Security Board’s commitment to community development by enhancing the medical infrastructure available to citizens.
Dr. Jenson Morton, Director of Health Institutions, accepted the equipment and noted the positive impact the machines will have on expanding the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities.
“The endoscopy and colonoscopy machines are essential tools for early detection and treatment of various conditions, including colorectal cancer, ulcers, and other digestive disorders. With these machines, the hospital will be able to provide more timely and effective care, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad,” Dr. Morton stated.
Christopher Louard, Director of the Social Security Board, highlighted that the donation aligned with SSB’s mission to contribute both financially and through tangible initiatives that benefit public health and education.
“The Social Security Board is deeply invested in the welfare of our people. We recognise that healthcare plays a critical role not only in building a strong and healthy society but for the continuation of a sustainable fund,” he remarked during the handover ceremony.
Minister of Health, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, praised the donation, noting its alignment with his government’s objective to modernise St. Kitts and Nevis’ health sector.
Prime Minister Drew also revealed that the Caribbean Society of Endoscopic Surgeons’ Twelfth Annual Scientific Conference will be hosted in St. Kitts and Nevis from 14 – 16 November , 2024. The three-day event will feature live surgical demonstrations at JNF General Hospital by renowned surgeons, discussions on resilient health systems in the Caribbean, and interactive workshops. The conference will expose local medical practitioners to the latest trends, patient care strategies, and technological innovations in the field of endoscopy.These recent efforts mark a continued focus by the Labour Party administration to advance healthcare in St. Kitts and Nevis. The combined effect of regional collaboration, substantial equipment donations, and upcoming professional development events signals a clear commitment to improving healthcare access and quality for citizens.
PM Drew also believes that as the island nation moves forward, these initiatives will play a crucial role in building a modern and resilient health sector capable of meeting future challenges.
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