In a significant move to address healthcare workforce shortages, Belize has awarded sixty scholarships to students pursuing nursing, pharmacology, and midwifery. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, is part of a broader ten-year training plan approved by the Cabinet, with an investment exceeding twenty million dollars. The plan aims to strengthen the ranks of healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, and specialists, to build a more resilient public health system. The Ministry has collaborated with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Ministry of Education to secure the necessary funding for these scholarships. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard emphasized the importance of investing in local talent to prevent the migration of skilled professionals to larger countries. Minister of Education Oscar Requena encouraged recipients to utilize this opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to Belize’s healthcare system. The IDB’s Country Economist, Camilo Pecha, highlighted the project’s focus on both infrastructure and human capital, marking the official start of a scholarship program that will benefit over thirty public health professionals. This initiative is a critical step toward improving access to quality healthcare and ensuring a sustainable future for Belize’s public health sector.
分类： health
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7th International Congress on Health and Wellness Tourism officially opens
The Dominican Republic has once again demonstrated its prominence in the global health and wellness tourism sector with the inauguration of the Seventh International Congress on Health and Wellness Tourism. Hosted by the Dominican Association of Health Tourism (ADTS) and AF Comunicación Estratégica, the event commenced with an opening cocktail at the JW Marriott Santo Domingo Hotel. The gathering brought together government officials, investors, healthcare and tourism leaders, and international guests, highlighting the country’s growing influence in this dynamic industry. The ceremony was spearheaded by ADTS President Dr. Alejandro Cambiaso and Vice President Amelia Reyes Mora, who also leads AF Comunicación Estratégica. Both emphasized the Dominican Republic’s advancements and strategic positioning in health tourism, attributing its success to robust public-private partnerships, adherence to quality standards, international certifications, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Reyes Mora further stressed the role of ethical and strategic communication in fostering trust and establishing the nation as a reliable and competitive destination for health and wellness tourism. A highlight of the event was the recognition of the HOMS Health Wellness Center for its innovative integration of a medical complex, hotel, and convention center, all meeting international standards. Additionally, Dr. Henry Gallardo was honored for his leadership in advancing healthcare collaboration across Latin America. Supported by over 60 sponsors and media partners, the Congress features seven panels and three keynote addresses by renowned national and international experts. Officially opened by Health Minister Dr. Víctor Atallah, the event serves as a pivotal platform to promote investment, innovation, and alliances, further solidifying the Dominican Republic’s status as a leading destination for health, wellness, and retirement tourism.
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‘Nurses and Pharmacists Scarce!’
Belize is grappling with a persistent shortage of nurses and pharmacists, a challenge that Health and Wellness Minister Kevin Bernard has highlighted as a pressing issue. Despite increased government support for training and retention, the country continues to lose healthcare professionals to larger nations. Bernard emphasized the critical need for nursing, stating, “Nursing is a necessity. We have been losing some of our nurses to bigger countries, so we must invest in encouraging more Belizeans to pursue this profession.” Similarly, the pharmacy sector faces a talent drain, with newly qualified pharmacists often being recruited by private entities. Bernard noted, “Pharmacy is a profession where graduates are quickly snapped up. We compete with the private sector to retain pharmacists, as every drugstore requires one.” To address this, the ministry has raised pharmacists’ salaries and plans to offer additional scholarships next year. Looking ahead, Bernard stressed the importance of strategic staffing for new healthcare facilities, including the San Pedro Hospital and the upcoming Belmopan tertiary hospital. “Training in these fields takes three to five years, so we must plan to ensure adequate staffing when these hospitals become operational,” he explained.
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Health Ministry Expands Scholarships for Medical Students
In a significant move to bolster its healthcare workforce, the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has announced the expansion of its scholarship program for medical students. The initiative, which now offers 60 scholarships, aims to support students pursuing careers in nursing, midwifery, and pharmacy. This marks a substantial increase from the 40 scholarships awarded last year. Minister Kevin Bernard emphasized the program’s importance, stating, ‘This is about investing in our people and ensuring we can train professionals in fields where Belize faces shortages.’ The Ministry of Education has contributed to 15 bachelor’s nursing scholarships, while the Ministry of Health has secured funding for 14 bachelor’s scholarships, nine practical nursing scholarships, and 20 midwifery scholarships. Additionally, the Inter-American Development Bank has funded two pharmacy scholarships. With a total value exceeding $1.1 million, the ministry plans to further increase the number of scholarships annually to address the nation’s healthcare needs.
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Residents attending major climate conference in Brazil told to get yellow fever and measles vaccine
As the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) approaches, set to take place from November 10 to 21, 2025, in Belém, Brazil, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is issuing a critical health advisory. With an estimated 60,000 participants from 198 countries expected to attend, including heads of state, scientists, activists, and civil society representatives, PAHO/WHO emphasizes the importance of reviewing vaccination statuses for yellow fever and measles before traveling. Yellow fever, a severe mosquito-borne viral infection, can lead to high fever, liver damage, and, in severe cases, death. In 2025 alone, the Americas have reported 294 cases and 121 fatalities across six countries, including Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru. Although Belém has not reported any cases this year, its location in the Amazon region, a high-risk area, necessitates vigilance. Measles, another highly contagious viral disease, has seen a global resurgence, with 177,469 cases worldwide and 12,163 in the Americas as of mid-October. Canada leads in regional cases, while Brazil has recorded 35 cases, none in Belém. PAHO/WHO recommends that unvaccinated individuals receive the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before travel and the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) at least 15 days prior. For those aged 60 and older, yellow fever vaccination should be approached cautiously after a medical evaluation. Both vaccines can be administered simultaneously or with a four-week interval. PAHO/WHO also calls for enhanced epidemiological surveillance, vaccine availability, and risk communication across the region. Health systems are urged to monitor COP30 attendees for symptoms such as fever, rash, or jaundice during and after the event.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Hospitals in emergency mode, clinics to close early as storm approaches
In response to the impending Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaica’s public healthcare system has activated emergency protocols, effective from 4:00 pm on Thursday. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton announced the measures during a press briefing at Jamaica House earlier in the day. Under the emergency mode, all public hospitals will remain operational, but outpatient services and elective surgeries will be temporarily suspended to prioritize emergency care. Additionally, visitation rights will be restricted, and families are urged to collect relatives admitted for non-critical conditions to free up bed space for potential emergencies. Dr. Tufton emphasized the need to conserve resources, stating, ‘We have to reserve bed space just in case we need them for emergencies.’ The government plans to provide further updates on the status of health centers on Friday.
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Dr Griffin Benjamin Remains on Leave as Clarevue Probe Continues
Dr. Griffin Benjamin, the head of Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital, continues to be on administrative leave weeks after his suspension, with no updates from the Ministry of Health regarding his potential return. The Dominican psychiatrist was relieved of his duties in early September due to what the ministry described as ‘serious concerns’ about his conduct and management of the facility. As part of the suspension, Dr. Benjamin was instructed to surrender all hospital property, prohibited from entering government institutions, and restricted from leaving Antigua and Barbuda without written authorization. The investigation reportedly focuses on two key issues: the confinement of an American University of Antigua student and the administration of an antipsychotic drug not included in the government’s formulary, despite its presence on the broader Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) list. The ministry emphasized that the suspension was a precautionary measure, but the lack of updates has left the hospital without a permanent medical director since his removal. The prolonged absence of leadership raises concerns about the hospital’s operations and the welfare of its patients.
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Canada-funded UNFPA workshop enhances frontline healthcare providers in Dominica’s efforts to prevent and control STIs
Over twenty frontline healthcare professionals from Dominica’s Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services have significantly enhanced their expertise in preventing and treating Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) following an intensive two-day training session. The workshop, funded by Canada’s Global Affairs Department under the Build Back Equal Initiative, was facilitated by UNFPA, the United Nations agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health. The training, which commenced on October 20, 2025, aimed to bolster Dominica’s healthcare infrastructure and promote gender equality. Honourable Kent Edwards, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the critical role of international partnerships in strengthening disease prevention, early detection, and effective STI management. He highlighted that addressing STIs extends beyond clinical concerns, intersecting with broader issues such as healthcare access, social stigma, and adolescent health. Thu Trang Nguyen, Second Secretary for Development at Global Affairs Canada, praised Dominica’s leadership in health priorities and underscored the importance of knowledge transfer in building a resilient health system. Jenny Karlsen, Deputy Director of UNFPA’s Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, stressed the need for increased investments in women’s health issues, particularly in addressing menopause-related stigma and misinformation. The event concluded with the presentation of sexual and reproductive health commodities to the Parliamentary Secretary, symbolizing the tangible outcomes of the Build Back Equal Project.
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Minister of State and Permanent Secretary Attend OECS Meetings in Grenada
Senator Michael Joseph, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs, alongside Permanent Secretary Mr. Colin O’Keiffe, is actively participating in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Pooled Procurement Services (PPS) Meeting and the Ministers of Health Meeting in Grenada. This pivotal five-day event, scheduled from October 20 to 24, 2025, convenes senior officials and technical experts from OECS member states to deliberate on strategies for enhancing regional pharmaceutical procurement and supply chain management. The OECS Pooled Procurement Services initiative is a cornerstone in ensuring the accessibility, affordability, and quality of essential medicines and medical supplies across the Eastern Caribbean. Key topics on the agenda include cost containment, equitable access to healthcare resources, and the fortification of procurement systems to bolster resilient healthcare delivery. The presence of Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation highlights the government’s dedication to fostering regional cooperation and advancing efficient, transparent, and sustainable health systems for the benefit of its citizens. The Ministry anticipates the outcomes of this critical engagement and is committed to implementing recommendations that will refine national procurement processes and enhance health security for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Winners step out to promote healthier living
In a vibrant celebration of health and wellness, Barbados’ Ministry of Health and Wellness, alongside the National Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Commission, honored the winners of the National Sneaker Day campaign on September 26. The initiative, designed to encourage Barbadians to embrace more active lifestyles, was hailed as a resounding success, blending playful participation with a serious call for healthier living. The campaign garnered 117 social media entries, with 111 meeting the official criteria, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for wellness across the nation. At a prize-giving ceremony held at the Frank Walcott Building, individuals and organizations were recognized for their creative and impactful contributions. Suleiman Bulbulia, Chair of the NCD Commission, praised the campaign’s success, emphasizing the urgent need to address the NCD crisis in Barbados. “Eighty percent or more of our deaths are attributed to NCDs—diabetes, hypertension, cancer—and now mental health has been added to that list,” he stated. Bulbulia stressed that most NCDs are preventable through better lifestyle choices, particularly increased physical activity. Among the winners were Jamal Maynard of the City of Bridgetown Co-operative Credit Union for Most Creative Post, Sagicor Life Inc. for Most Liked Post, Salena Small as Individual Winner, and Ignatius Byer Primary School as Group Winner. Bulbulia highlighted the importance of instilling healthy habits early, noting the inclusion of a school among the awardees. Dr. Kimberly Phillips, Senior Medical Officer of Health, commended participants and underscored the necessity of collective action to combat sedentary lifestyles. “We want to make movement fun again,” she said, urging Barbadians to see physical activity as an enjoyable part of daily life. Prizes included gym memberships, tickets to the Atlantis Submarine experience, and a group trip for 40 Ignatius Byer Primary pupils to the Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary. Dr. Phillips concluded with a call for unity: “If we are going to reverse the current situation, we have to do it together. Barbados, let us continue to participate and support each other.”