Carib Scope

分类： health

  • Muscling in on healthcare, doc channels bodybuilding grit into innovation

    Muscling in on healthcare, doc channels bodybuilding grit into innovation

    Dr. Christina Dowell is revolutionizing Barbados’ healthcare landscape through an unconventional fusion of athletic discipline and medical expertise. The 34-year-old general practitioner and entrepreneur has translated the rigorous mindset of competitive bodybuilding into creating Pinnacle MedSuites, a innovative medical co-working facility in Belleville, St Michael.

    Her journey began with athletic pursuits that evolved into competitive bodybuilding, where she mastered the arts of endurance, precision planning, and mental resilience. These qualities proved critical when facing overwhelming odds—just a 2% chance of matching into a US medical residency program. Rather than deterring her, this statistical reality fueled her determination, using weightlifting as both stress management and structural foundation during exam preparation.

    Dr. Dowell’s medical practice revealed systemic gaps in patient care, particularly the over-reliance on medication without addressing underlying lifestyle factors. Her personal experimentation with diet, exercise, and clinical science produced measurable health improvements that became the foundational philosophy behind Pinnacle MedSuites.

    The facility offers fully-equipped consultation suites with shared reception services, linen, Wi-Fi, janitorial services, and optional clinical additions. Its membership model provides flexible options from virtual offices to four-hour blocks, enabling healthcare providers to scale operations according to patient demand.

    Drawing from experiences in both Barbadian and American healthcare systems, Dr. Dowell designed the facility to combine operational efficiency with the warmth and practicality appropriate for the Barbadian context. Key features include streamlined workflows, online scheduling, consistent room standards, and transparent pricing—all while maintaining rigorous safety and professionalism protocols.

    The greatest challenge has been overcoming traditional healthcare models and reassuring clinicians about privacy, cost, autonomy, and care continuity. Pinnacle MedSuites addresses these concerns through clear policies, robust infection control, flexible booking, and responsive on-site support.

    Dr. Dowell acknowledges the collaborative effort behind her success, citing family support, medical mentors, clinical colleagues, and her operational team. Looking forward, she envisions the model as scalable beyond Barbados to other Caribbean islands and potentially international markets once firmly established.

    Her advice to aspiring young women embodies her journey: “Let data inform you, not define you. Small, honest wins beat perfect plans that never launch. Stay coachable—feedback isn’t a verdict, it’s an aid.”

  • MBS Opens New Pharmacy at the Villa Polyclinic

    MBS Opens New Pharmacy at the Villa Polyclinic

    The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs has inaugurated a new Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) pharmacy at Villa Polyclinic, significantly enhancing pharmaceutical service accessibility for Antigua and Barbuda residents. The facility was officially unveiled during a ceremonial event featuring key government and healthcare officials.

    Honourable Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph presided over the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Medical Benefits Board Chairman Sir Lionel Hurst, MBS CEO Mr. Kevin Silston, and Primary Health Care Permanent Secretary Mrs. Stacey Gregg-Paige. The collaboration between the Ministry and MBS represents a strategic advancement in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.

    Minister Joseph emphasized the critical role of preventive healthcare in addressing the escalating prevalence of non-communicable diseases. The integration of pharmacy services within the primary healthcare facility ensures the Villa community receives comprehensive medical attention while reinforcing disease prevention strategies.

    Dr. Andre Bovell, Epidemiologist and Director of Pharmacy at MBS, highlighted the timely implementation of this service within the evolving healthcare landscape. He noted the particular importance of targeted care for the aging population and the growing challenge of chronic non-communicable diseases in the current medical environment.

    The newly established pharmacy will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, providing same-day pharmaceutical services to patients. For additional information regarding the MBS Pharmacy services, residents can contact the Medical Benefits Scheme at (268) 481-6366/67.

  • CARPHA and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition reaffirm partnership to enhance the Caribbean’s response to non-communicable diseases

    CARPHA and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition reaffirm partnership to enhance the Caribbean’s response to non-communicable diseases

    In a significant move to address the Caribbean’s persistent health challenges, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) have formally extended their collaborative partnership through a new five-year Memorandum of Understanding. This strengthened alliance specifically targets the region’s escalating Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) crisis through coordinated scientific and advocacy initiatives.

    The renewed agreement builds upon eight years of established cooperation, combining CARPHA’s technical expertise in public health research with HCC’s robust civil society networks. The partnership will focus on enhancing policy implementation, advancing disease surveillance systems, and amplifying health education across CARICOM member states.

    Dr. Kenneth Connell, President of HCC, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration: ‘This third consecutive MOU demonstrates civil society’s valued role as a strategic partner in public health. Our joint efforts will accelerate regional health measures as we approach the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.’

    CARPHA Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar highlighted the practical implications: ‘Our collaboration ensures CARPHA’s evidence-based research translates into meaningful community action. Together we can accelerate policy implementation and empower Caribbean populations to make healthier choices.’

    The partnership framework encompasses five strategic pillars:

    1. Knowledge Development and Dissemination: Implementing innovative communication strategies to distribute scientifically sound information to stakeholders and improve health literacy

    2. Organizational Capacity Building: Leveraging combined resources to strengthen civil society groups’ capabilities in implementing health initiatives

    3. Expanded Partnership Networks: Developing broader coalitions to advance whole-of-society approaches to NCD prevention and policy coherence

    4. Enhanced Advocacy Mechanisms: Strengthening civil society’s ability to hold governments accountable for regional and international NCD commitments

    5. High-Level Governance Engagement: Engaging with regional bodies including COHSOD, COTED, and Heads of Government meetings to advance the NCD agenda

    This reinforced collaboration arrives at a critical juncture as the Caribbean contends with disproportionately high rates of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and respiratory illnesses. Both organizations reaffirm their commitment to creating a unified, resilient response to the region’s NCD crisis through continued collaboration with governments, civil society, and local communities.

  • Spike in respiratory illnesses, traffic injuries strains QEH A&E

    Spike in respiratory illnesses, traffic injuries strains QEH A&E

    The Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department is confronting unprecedented operational pressures as simultaneous surges in respiratory illnesses and motor vehicle accident injuries create critical capacity constraints. Hospital administration has officially acknowledged that this dual health crisis has significantly disrupted patient flow and reduced the department’s ability to accommodate new cases effectively.

    While the hospital’s triage protocol ensures immediate attention for life-threatening conditions, patients presenting with less urgent medical concerns should anticipate substantially prolonged waiting periods. The institution has implemented strategic measures to address the overwhelming demand, including a public advisory urging individuals to seek preliminary guidance before visiting the emergency facility.

    A dedicated Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) has been activated to provide initial assessments and medical direction. This service operates via regular calls and WhatsApp messaging at 536-4800 from 8:00 a.m. until midnight daily. Hospital officials emphasize that this pre-screening mechanism aims to optimize resource allocation and prioritize critical cases.

    For non-emergency medical needs, the QEH recommends alternative treatment options including the 24-hour clinic at the Winston Scott Polyclinic on Jemmotts Lane, St Michael, or consultation with private physicians when available. The hospital administration has expressed regret for resulting inconveniences while simultaneously commending public patience and understanding during this period of exceptional demand on healthcare services.

  • Dominica Hospital Authority pushes upgraded compensation package for doctors

    Dominica Hospital Authority pushes upgraded compensation package for doctors

    The Dominican government is advancing a significant overhaul of its healthcare compensation system, spearheaded by Health Minister Cassanni Laville. In a recent appearance on the ‘Focus on Government and Development Program’ on DBS Radio, Minister Laville detailed the administration’s proactive steps to develop a new, improved remuneration package for the nation’s medical doctors, emphasizing fairness and extensive consultation with medical professionals.

    Minister Laville confirmed that a draft proposal for the upgraded package has been prepared and deliberated upon by the Cabinet. This initiative has been a focal point of review over recent weeks and months. The process has been bolstered by the expertise of Dr. Kenneth Darroux, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Dominica Hospital Authority, who has been tasked with conferring directly with various specialists to refine the offerings and ensure widespread satisfaction. ‘This is the type of engagement that we have so that the Dominican doctors can have that dream right here in Dominica,’ Laville stated, highlighting the goal of retaining top medical talent within the country.

    This move is part of a broader suite of measures first announced by Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre during the July 2025 presentation of the 2025/2026 National Budget. Key announcements included the creation of eleven new medical specialist positions effective August 1, 2025, and a deadline of August 6, 2025, for the approval of the enhanced remuneration package for specialists and other medical roles. Furthermore, the government pledged to present a Medical Professional Bill and a Nursing Midwives Bill to Parliament by September 2025. These legislative actions are direct responses to public concerns regarding the quality of care at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital (DCFH).

    To strengthen hospital governance, a full-time Executive Chairperson will be appointed to enforce greater accountability, transparency, and the delivery of high-quality patient care. The new organizational structure also introduces a Clinical Director, a role endowed with the same rank as the CEO, who will report directly to the Executive Chairperson and be responsible for overseeing all clinical and medical services, ensuring proactive management of patient concerns.

    Complementing these structural changes, the government is launching a financial reward program to motivate nursing and medical staff. This performance-based initiative, set to commence at the DCFH, will grant ten quarterly awards to the most outstanding doctors and nurses as evaluated by both patients and supervisors. The program aims to incentivize excellence in healthcare delivery, reinforcing the government’s commitment to a revitalized and robust public health system.

  • Health Minister reports major rise in Specialist Doctors at SLBMC

    Health Minister reports major rise in Specialist Doctors at SLBMC

    In a significant demonstration of national healthcare advancement, Antigua and Barbuda has achieved remarkable growth in its medical specialist workforce through strategic government investment in human capital development. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph revealed that the country’s primary public healthcare facility, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, now boasts 151 specialist doctors—a dramatic increase from just 65 specialists recorded in 2014 when the current administration assumed office.

    The substantial expansion represents a 132% growth in specialist medical personnel over the past decade, fundamentally transforming the nation’s healthcare delivery capabilities. Notably, 99 of these specialists are Antiguan and Barbudan nationals, demonstrating the success of targeted localization strategies in the medical profession.

    Minister Joseph emphasized that this workforce transformation results from sustained governmental commitment to medical education and professional development. Currently, numerous doctors are pursuing advanced training through sponsored study leave programs, focusing on specialty areas identified as critical to addressing the nation’s healthcare requirements.

    This strategic approach to building domestic medical expertise represents a fundamental shift toward long-term healthcare system sustainability. By developing local talent rather than relying heavily on foreign medical professionals, the government is creating a self-sufficient healthcare model that promises improved medical services for citizens while retaining healthcare expenditure within the national economy.

    The significant increase in specialist physicians enables enhanced medical service delivery across multiple disciplines, potentially reducing the need for overseas medical referrals and improving healthcare outcomes for the population. This investment in human capital development underscores the administration’s commitment to achieving comprehensive healthcare reform and establishing a robust medical infrastructure capable of meeting contemporary health challenges.

  • Cancer Society warns screening rates remain dangerously low

    Cancer Society warns screening rates remain dangerously low

    Barbados has entered a new era of cancer treatment with the installation of a state-of-the-art linear accelerator at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, though health advocates caution that technological progress alone cannot overcome systemic screening deficiencies. Professor David Rosin, President of the Barbados Cancer Society, characterized the $10 million radiotherapy equipment as a transformative advancement that finally brings the nation’s radiation therapy capabilities to international standards.

    The newly implemented linear accelerator represents a significant technological leap from previous cobalt radiation methods, utilizing high-energy radiation to precisely target malignant cells while minimizing collateral damage to healthy tissue. This precision technology requires specialized operational expertise, prompting the hospital to bring in international experts to train local radiologists in its sophisticated operation.

    Professor Rosin emphasized the paradoxical challenge facing Barbados’ healthcare system: “While this equipment represents a monumental improvement in treatment capabilities, its impact will remain limited without addressing critical screening shortcomings, particularly among male patients.” He expressed particular frustration with low screening participation rates, noting that early detection remains the most crucial factor in successful cancer outcomes.

    Statistical evidence indicates approximately 70% of cancers become curable when identified at initial stages, potentially avoiding aggressive interventions like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. Genetic factors contribute significantly to cancer risk, with about 20% of cases attributable to hereditary predisposition—making family history an important screening consideration.

    Barbados’ cancer epidemiology reveals prostate cancer as the most prevalent malignancy, despite men constituting only half the population. Colorectal cancer ranks second, followed closely by breast cancer. All three demonstrate high treatability rates with early detection.

    The Cancer Society continues supporting healthcare advancements through fundraising initiatives, recently concluding a raffle that awarded $25,000 to first prize winner Rebekuh Wood. Additional prizes included luxury hotel stays for runners-up Andrew King and Christina Johnson, reflecting ongoing community support for cancer care modernization.

  • Senator Says Cancer Center Reopening Will Spare Patients Overseas Treatment

    Senator Says Cancer Center Reopening Will Spare Patients Overseas Treatment

    In a powerful address to the Senate during the 2026 budget deliberations, Independent Senator Jamilla Kirwan framed healthcare accessibility as a fundamental human dignity issue. Drawing from her dual perspective as both a cancer survivor and family member of a cancer patient, Kirwan welcomed the anticipated first-quarter 2026 reopening of Antigua and Barbuda’s cancer treatment facility while issuing substantive cautions about long-term sustainability.

    The Senator characterized the center’s operationalization as a transformative development for the nation’s health services and the broader OECS region. Once functional, the facility will eliminate the necessity for patients to seek radiation treatment abroad, primarily in Colombia, thereby alleviating substantial financial burdens and emotional distress during already challenging times.

    Kirwan specifically endorsed the government’s commitment to subsidize treatment costs for local patients, emphasizing that life-saving care should not be contingent upon financial capacity. Her testimony revealed profound personal dimensions, recounting her own chemotherapy treatments coinciding with her mother’s cancer diagnosis that required overseas surgery.

    Beyond the celebratory aspect of the reopening, the Senator articulated critical prerequisites for success. She emphasized that sophisticated radiation technology demands rigorous maintenance protocols, describing preventative upkeep as non-negotiable for patient safety and equipment reliability. Kirwan warned that without established responsibility frameworks and consistent oversight, expensive medical infrastructure risks rapid deterioration, ultimately compromising care quality and public trust.

    The Senator advocated for a paradigm shift in healthcare management, urging that maintenance be treated as strategic investment rather than reactive expense. She highlighted the necessity of long-term planning over emergency repairs, noting that neglect inevitably results in higher costs and inferior patient outcomes.

    Kirwan further emphasized the vital role of public-private partnerships in healthcare delivery, particularly for specialized treatments where time-sensitive access proves decisive. Connecting these concerns to broader budgetary considerations, she challenged the government to balance service expansion with sustainable maintenance capacity, positioning the cancer center reopening as both an infrastructure milestone and a test of the nation’s commitment to equitable, people-centered healthcare.

  • New flu variant detected in more than 30 countries

    New flu variant detected in more than 30 countries

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a new alert regarding the accelerated transmission of a novel influenza subclade known as K. This variant, while not currently included in Northern Hemisphere vaccine formulations, demonstrates a concerning pattern of early seasonal proliferation. Initial epidemiological data, however, reaffirm that existing vaccines maintain their critical role in mitigating severe disease outcomes and substantially lowering hospitalization risks. The global health body has identified an unusually premature onset of the flu season in Northern regions, with Subclade K appearing as a dominant driver. Since its initial detection in Australia and New Zealand during August, thirty nations have confirmed cases, indicating widespread international circulation. Surveillance data from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) corroborate a steady uptick in detections across the United States and Canada. Conversely, South American countries have not yet reported significant local transmission of this specific subvariant. European and Asian nations are experiencing particularly rapid dissemination rates, where Subclade K now constitutes a substantial proportion of analyzed influenza A(H3N2) viruses. In response to these developments, the WHO continues to emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective intervention for preventing the most severe clinical manifestations of the illness.

  • NHI providers claim financial stress over delayed payments

    NHI providers claim financial stress over delayed payments

    A deepening financial crisis within the Bahamas’ National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme is threatening the program’s stability, prompting healthcare providers to form a collective action group in response to systemic challenges. Medical professionals report severe payment delays extending over two months, with the most recent disbursement covering only partial claims from October, creating unsustainable cash flow constraints for practices.

    The newly established National Health Insurance Providers Association (NHI PA) represents physicians facing what they describe as compounding operational pressures. Dr. Denotrah Archer-Cartwright, an association representative, highlighted the tangible impacts: ‘We have rent to pay, we have utilities to pay, all of these things have gone up. We’ve never received any additional funds in the past seven years, yet we continue despite not knowing when we will be paid or how much we will receive.’

    This financial strain has already triggered significant practice modifications. Some providers have exited the program entirely, while others drain personal savings to maintain operations. Concurrently, patients experience reduced benefits despite government announcements of program expansion, creating uncomfortable conversations between doctors and those they serve.

    The conflict intensifies as health officials pursue NHI expansion plans, including broader medication access, without identifying additional funding sources. Providers warn that enlarging the program without resolving payment failures risks catastrophic system failure.

    Further complicating matters, proposed policy changes would impose monthly service fees of $250-$500 for using the mandatory electronic medical record system starting next year—a requirement doctors criticize as unprecedented in international health systems. Dr. Ian Kelly noted: ‘I’ve worked in a number of countries myself, and I have never seen the micromanagement that is here. In many countries, they promote and actually encourage with extra funds.’

    Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville acknowledged payment delays while confirming November reimbursements remain outstanding. He stated ministry efforts to regularize balances and characterized recent policy changes as necessary for long-term sustainability. Despite ministerial assurances of commitment to dialogue, providers report feeling unheard amid unilateral changes to payment schedules and patient assignments.