In a significant move to bolster emergency medical services, the administration of Antigua and Barbuda has formally sanctioned the acquisition of a specialized ambulance dedicated to serving the eastern corridor region. Prime Minister Gaston Browne disclosed this development during his weekly appearance on the ‘Browne and Browne Show’ broadcast via Pointe FM this past Saturday.
The Prime Minister confirmed he has granted explicit authorization to Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph to proceed with the procurement process for the emergency vehicle, which will be permanently stationed within the St. Philip’s North constituency. This decision directly addresses a formal request from the Health Ministry for a specific budgetary allocation to secure the ambulance, aimed at enhancing coverage for the eastern communities.
‘Minister Joseph approached me with a proposal for a designated budget to acquire an ambulance specifically for that region, to be stationed there permanently for the eastern corridor,’ stated PM Browne. ‘I have given my official authorization, and the ministry is now actively obtaining quotations to facilitate the purchase for St. Philip’s North.’
This healthcare initiative was announced as part of a broader presentation detailing imminent infrastructure and public service enhancements planned for the constituency. The comprehensive upgrade package also includes the establishment of a temporary police station, plans for a future permanent combined police and fire station, and the creation of a local pharmacy.
The introduction of a dedicated ambulance is projected to substantially decrease emergency response times for residents in St. Philip’s North and adjacent eastern areas. These communities have historically been dependent on emergency services dispatched from more centralized locations, often resulting in longer wait times during critical situations.
Prime Minister Browne emphasized that this measure constitutes a key component of the government’s wider strategic agenda to fortify healthcare accessibility and enhance the efficiency of emergency response systems throughout the entire nation of Antigua and Barbuda.