The Medical Association of Antigua and Barbuda Inc. (MAAB) has reinstated Dr. Alafea Stevens as its president, marking her return to leadership after previously completing two consecutive terms. This election brings one of the nation’s most experienced emergency medicine specialists back to the helm of the professional medical body.
Dr. Stevens brings over a decade of comprehensive expertise spanning clinical practice, healthcare administration, and professional leadership. She received her medical degree from the Latin American School of Medicine in Cuba (2010), followed by an internship through St. George’s University at St. George’s General Hospital in Grenada. She further specialized by earning a postgraduate diploma in emergency medicine from the University of the West Indies in Trinidad.
Her clinical leadership was forged during her service as head of the Emergency Room Department at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Subsequently, she moved into national health policy, currently holding the position of senior medical officer within the Ministry of Health’s Medical Division. In this capacity, she has fulfilled the roles of both medical officer of health and deputy chief medical officer.
Beyond her governmental duties, Dr. Stevens holds influential positions on multiple statutory boards, including the Antigua and Barbuda Pharmacy Council, the Medical Benefits Scheme Board, and the national Formulary Committee. Her longstanding involvement with MAAB includes serving as secretary-treasurer (2018-2020) prior to her initial presidency (2020-2024).
Dr. Stevens maintains significant engagement in public health advocacy and community service. She is an honorary member of Antigua and Barbuda Breast Friends, supporting free breast cancer screening initiatives for over ten years. Regionally, she serves as Antigua and Barbuda’s country lead for the Howard University Caribbean Clinicians Community of Practice Project and contributes to the World Organization of Family Doctors’ working group for women and family medicine.
Additionally, she represents the nation on Caribbean Medical TV, where she addresses common regional health issues and innovative solutions. Her exemplary service has been recognized through numerous MAAB awards honoring her contributions to medicine, volunteerism, community service, and professional leadership.