Saint Lucia’s government has initiated decisive steps to establish a Universal Health Coverage Authority, marking a significant breakthrough after years of delayed implementation. Health Minister Moses Jn Baptiste confirmed the development on February 17th, committing to transform the country’s healthcare landscape amid mounting financial pressures that reached EC$200 million in 2025.
The announcement coincided with the launch of a dedicated SLUHC website and comprehensive branding system designed to enhance public engagement. The digital platform will enable citizens to monitor policy developments, receive emergency alerts, and access enrollment notifications, creating unprecedented transparency in the healthcare system.
Since its initial rollout in 2022, the UHC program has demonstrated substantial impact, delivering thousands of free medical services according to SLUHC Director Alisha Eugene-Ford. Notable achievements include antenatal care for over 3,400 expectant mothers, cervical cancer screenings for more than 5,500 women, and specialized men’s health consultations serving approximately 1,600 patients. The program has expanded to include breast cancer screenings, snakebite treatments, and other critical interventions.
Minister Jn Baptiste revealed that draft legislation to formalize the new authority is already in advanced stages, with the Health Ministry collaborating closely with the Attorney General’s Chambers and key stakeholders before presenting the bill to Cabinet. He openly acknowledged the frustration among healthcare professionals who have witnessed successive administrations fail to deliver comprehensive coverage promises.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre highlighted the severe financial constraints, noting that institutions like St Jude Hospital and the Owen King European Union Hospital require tens of millions in additional funding for personnel alone—far exceeding the approximately $45 million expected from the health and security levy this year. The government remains committed to making healthcare “affordable, equitable, and reachable” while operating within the country’s fiscal realities.
The new UHC branding incorporates carefully selected colors and symbols representing both Saint Lucia’s identity and the integration of traditional and modern healthcare systems that form the foundation of the universal coverage initiative.