The Princess Royal Hospital on Carriacou has transformed its healthcare capabilities through the inauguration of a groundbreaking on-site oxygen generation bank, ending the island’s dependence on imported medical oxygen. This strategic infrastructure development addresses a critical vulnerability in the region’s healthcare system that previously required hazardous sea transport of oxygen cylinders from mainland Grenada—a process plagued by cost inefficiencies and logistical uncertainties.
The newly operational facility guarantees a continuous, reliable supply of medical-grade oxygen for critically ill patients, fundamentally enhancing emergency response capabilities and routine medical care. Clinical staff have hailed the development as a revolutionary advancement in patient treatment protocols, particularly for respiratory emergencies and surgical procedures.
During the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Tevin Andrews, Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the OECS Commission, Direct Relief, and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Minister Andrews contextualized the oxygen bank within his broader modernization agenda for Carriacou, which recently included water storage and desalination infrastructure upgrades in Belair. “This achievement marks a definitive end to our reliance on oxygen transportation from Grenada,” Minister Andrews declared. “We’re establishing self-sufficient systems to produce medical oxygen locally, ensuring healthcare sovereignty for our community.”
The event gathered prominent figures from national healthcare and disaster management sectors. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shawn Charles elaborated on how the oxygen generation facility aligns with Grenada’s comprehensive strategy to upgrade remote medical services. Meanwhile, Health Disaster Management Officer Kathy-Ann Morain provided technical insights into the project’s implementation, emphasizing its role in fortifying the island’s resilience against future health crises and natural disasters.
Dr. Roxanne Brizan-St Martin, Programme Director for Health, Social Inclusion, and Social Protection at the OECS Commission, highlighted the regional significance of the development. The facility represents one of nine infrastructure enhancements delivered through the OECS-Direct Relief Enhancing Health Infrastructure and Resilience (EHR) Project, strengthening healthcare capabilities across the Eastern Caribbean.
From a clinical standpoint, Dr. Karla McDonald, House Officer at Princess Royal Hospital, emphasized the practical implications for medical staff. The immediate availability of locally produced oxygen significantly improves emergency response effectiveness and elevates the standard of daily patient care, particularly in critical situations where oxygen therapy is immediately required.