The People’s Republic of China will deploy its advanced naval hospital vessel, the Silk Road Ark, to Barbados during the Christmas season to deliver comprehensive medical care at no cost to local residents. This initiative marks the ship’s inaugural international humanitarian mission, scheduled from December 20-27, 2024.
According to Barbados’ Ministry of Health and Wellness, the floating medical facility will offer services from December 21-26, operating daily between 8:00-11:00 AM and 2:00-5:00 PM. The vessel represents one of the most sophisticated mobile medical platforms globally, featuring five specialized medical zones, eight fully-equipped operating theaters, and emergency helicopter capabilities.
Medical services encompass over sixty treatment modalities across fourteen clinical disciplines. Specialized care will include cardiovascular and respiratory medicine, gastroenterology, general surgery, orthopedics, ophthalmology, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, dermatology, otolaryngology, and traditional Chinese medicine therapies. Surgical interventions will range from appendectomies and hernia repairs to fracture stabilization, cataract procedures, and various endoscopic operations.
Stringent health protocols will be enforced to minimize infection risks, with restrictions applied to individuals presenting fever exceeding 37.5°C, active tuberculosis, comatose states, or critical infectious conditions. All Chinese medical personnel aboard will hold valid registrations with Barbadian professional councils, and patients may access services without mandatory referral documentation.
Health officials characterize this deployment as a significant humanitarian gesture during the holiday period, providing Barbadians unprecedented access to advanced medical care regardless of their healthcare status.