In a landmark announcement, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph has introduced a transformative healthcare model for Antigua and Barbuda, aiming to revolutionize primary healthcare delivery. The new system will assign full-time doctors to community clinics, ensuring they operate five days a week and offer expanded, consistent services. Joseph made the announcement during a town hall meeting in Seaview Farm, hosted by All Saints West MP Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. Currently, clinics provide essential services such as antenatal, postnatal, wound care, and diabetic care. However, the revamped model will introduce daily physician availability from Monday to Friday and incorporate full-time eye care services. Joseph highlighted the success of the Medical Benefits Scheme, which has facilitated over 2,000 free cataract surgeries, showcasing the impact of accessible healthcare. Additionally, the All Saints Clinic will be upgraded to a full polyclinic, offering free dental care, nephrology, gynecology, radiology, and basic lab testing. This upgrade will eliminate the need for patients to travel to the Celeste Bird Medical Centre for services like pap smears and blood tests. The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to decentralize health services, ensuring major clinics cater to nearby communities such as Seaview Farm, Buckley’s, and Freemans Village. Joseph also provided updates on national projects, including a new dialysis center at the Old Holberton Hospital, set to open within 12 to 18 months. The facility will expand dialysis capacity from 27 to 45 stations and include a surgical theatre for kidney transplants. Antigua and Barbuda has already completed 15 successful kidney transplants, a first in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The new center will serve both residents and returning nationals reliant on dialysis. Joseph concluded by emphasizing the government’s commitment to establishing polyclinics rather than pop-up clinics, ensuring consistent, community-based healthcare across the nation.
New Clinic Model to Feature Full-Time Doctors and Expanded Services
