On World Patient Safety Day 2025, Dominica’s Minister of Health, Wellness, and Social Services, Hon. Kassani Laville, delivered a compelling address urging citizens to prioritize patient safety as both a personal and national responsibility. Aligning with the global theme, “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child,” and the slogan “Patient Safety from the Start,” Minister Laville emphasized that safeguarding the health of Dominica’s youngest citizens begins even before birth. “Patient safety does not begin halfway through life,” Laville asserted. “It begins at birth—and I may argue, even before birth. Every clean hand, every sterile surface, and every mindful action honors that promise.”
Since its inception at the 72nd World Health Assembly in 2019, World Patient Safety Day has underscored the critical need to prevent harm in healthcare settings. Laville revealed that between 2020 and 2024, Dominica recorded over 3,100 live births, with more than 1,100 neonates requiring specialized hospital care. Notably, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) achieved remarkable milestones, including the survival of three premature infants born at just 25 weeks gestation.
Sister Juliana Darroux, Ward Sister of the Stronach Ward, reinforced the Minister’s message, highlighting the maternity unit’s role in managing high-risk pregnancies and ensuring safe deliveries. “Efficient antenatal care is a prerequisite for newborn safety,” she stated, “allowing early identification and intervention for risk factors that affect fetal well-being.”
The Dominica Hospitals Authority has implemented a robust safety framework to protect newborns and maintain high standards of care. Key measures include secure ID bands for proper newborn identification, rigorous infection prevention protocols, breastfeeding support, timely immunization, and safe clinical practices such as immediate skin-to-skin contact and delayed cord clamping. Family involvement is also encouraged through rooming-in, education on safe sleeping practices, and emotional support for caregivers.
Minister Laville commended the Infection Prevention and Control Department, led by Nurse Blez, and the Winston Ward pediatric team for their dedication to child health. “Every child deserves a safe beginning,” Laville affirmed. “Every family deserves confidence in the care they receive. And every healthcare worker deserves the tools and support to deliver quality outcomes.”
The Ministry and the Dominica Hospitals Authority pledged to continue enhancing safety measures across all levels of care. In his closing remarks, Laville called on communities to complement institutional efforts, stating, “Let us ensure our children are equipped with the skills, virtues, and compassion to become productive citizens of Dominica.”
