BDF, Ross University forge strategic medical partnership

The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) has taken a significant stride in enhancing its medical capabilities by entering into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM). This landmark agreement aims to bolster training, capacity-building, and the overall medical experience for BDF personnel. The signing ceremony featured key representatives from both institutions, including Brigadier Carlos Lovell, BDF’s chief of staff; Alejandro Carrasco, interim dean of RUSM; and Dr. Rhonda McIntyre, senior associate dean for external affairs at RUSM. Carrasco highlighted the partnership as a pivotal move in RUSM’s mission to strengthen ties with the BDF, offering its students unparalleled learning opportunities. Brigadier Lovell expressed the BDF’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the collaboration’s potential to elevate medical standards for both practitioners and beneficiaries. He reiterated the BDF’s dual role as a military institution and a dedicated community partner, stating, ‘This partnership underscores our commitment to enhancing the health and wellness of our personnel.’ The collaboration is expected to deliver long-term benefits, including advanced clinical training, improved medical service delivery, and enhanced inter-institutional cooperation, thereby reinforcing the BDF’s mission readiness and holistic support for its members.