Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Dr. Terrance Drew, has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate, and more responsive health care system with the commissioning of five custom-built ambulances for the Federation.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Joseph N. France General Hospital, Dr. Drew said the investment reflects his administration’s dedication to advancing the lives of all residents and nationals.
“This is a demonstration of our commitment to not just deliver, but to advance the lives of all of our residents and nationals,” Dr. Drew stated. “This ceremony marks the culmination of months of planning, coordination, and perseverance, and it stands as a testament to our government’s unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more responsive, and more compassionate health care system.”
The Prime Minister noted that the new ambulances are custom-built units designed specifically for the unique realities of St. Kitts and Nevis — from narrow roads and hilly terrain to remote villages and tight urban corners.
“These ambulances have been custom-built to meet the unique realities of our country — our narrow roads, our hilly terrain, our remote villages, and our vibrant communities,” he explained. “Each vehicle is compact yet powerful, equipped with advanced suspension, high ground clearance, and a turning radius that ensures access even to the most challenging locations.”
The fleet, supported locally through TDC Automotive, represents the single largest investment in an ambulance fleet in the nation’s history, valued at USD $1.7 million. Each vehicle is fitted with state-of-the-art medical technology, including advanced life support systems, suction units, defibrillators, oxygen resuscitators, and patient monitoring equipment — transforming every journey to the hospital into an extension of emergency medical care.
Dr. Drew also highlighted that ambulance service in St. Kitts and Nevis remains free, reflecting the government’s commitment to equitable health care for all.
“This commissioning is a reaffirmation of our belief that health care must be accessible, equitable, and effective,” he said. “It is about ensuring that whether you live in the heart of Basseterre or the far reaches of the island, help will come swiftly when it is needed most — because every life in this Federation matters.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged challenges and delays caused by global supply chain disruptions linked to the Ukraine war, but commended the resilience of the local team and strategic partner TDC. He also defended the decision to temporarily acquire refurbished ambulances while awaiting the new fleet, describing it as a necessary step to maintain service continuity.
“You cannot allow health care to fall apart while you wait on the new,” Dr. Drew said. “You must fill the gap — and that is why we did that.”
He expressed gratitude to the management and staff of the Joseph N. France General Hospital, EMTs, and all health care workers for their professionalism and patience, noting that the commissioning represents a victory for the entire health sector.
Dr. Drew further linked the initiative to the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda, specifically under the seventh pillar — social protection and health — which focuses on building a system that protects the vulnerable, prioritises wellness, and strengthens national resilience.
“This investment in emergency medical response is a direct expression of that commitment,” he said. “It is also about social justice, equity, and our enduring belief that health care is not a privilege, but a human right.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Hazel Laws, who also spoke at the ceremony, underscored the critical importance of an efficient ambulance service and praised the EMTs for their dedication. She reported that the JNF ambulance team had responded to over 1,620 calls between January and September 2025, averaging about 180 per month.
“These ambulances represent progress — progress in our ability to save lives, protect communities, and provide the highest standard of care to every citizen,” Dr. Laws said.
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