Carib Scope

分类： health

  • OECS signs agreement with World Pediatrics to strengthen child healthcare

    OECS signs agreement with World Pediatrics to strengthen child healthcare

    CASTRIES, St Lucia – A groundbreaking partnership has been formally established between the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the US-based nonprofit World Pediatrics, marking a significant advancement in pediatric healthcare for the region. The collaboration was solidified through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that creates a comprehensive framework for regional coordination to enhance clinical delivery systems.

    Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the transformative impact of World Pediatrics’ existing investments and collaborations with regional health ministries. “The OECS remains firmly committed to regional cooperation as a pathway to improved quality of life for our people,” Jules stated during the signing ceremony. He explained that this cooperation enables member states to pool expertise, harmonize approaches, and collectively address shared healthcare challenges that individual small states cannot effectively tackle alone.

    The agreement specifically focuses on strengthening pediatric surgical missions, specialized clinics, and improved referral pathways across the sub-region. It aligns with broader OECS initiatives to advance equity and inclusion by reducing disparities in health outcomes. The MoU places particular emphasis on capacity building through education and training programs designed to create sustainable improvements within local health systems.

    A critical component of the partnership involves leveraging research, data analytics, and monitoring systems to guide evidence-based policies and strategic investment decisions. The agreement also facilitates resource mobilization and underscores the importance of advocacy and public awareness campaigns, recognizing that child health improvement constitutes both a clinical and societal responsibility.

    World Pediatrics CEO Vafa Akhavan expressed enthusiasm about the alignment between both organizations, noting: “The guidance of the OECS in translating this MoU into specific lines of action will ensure we are impacting the lives of children, which ultimately affects families, communities, and future generations.” Nadege Jn Baptiste, Head of the Development Cooperation and Resource Mobilisation Unit at the OECS Commission, highlighted how strategic partnerships enable more effective resource mobilization and sustainable impact across the Eastern Caribbean.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Tuesday January 27th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Tuesday January 27th 2026

    The global dietary supplement market is facing renewed critical examination as health experts and regulatory bodies call for greater transparency and scientific validation of product claims. This multi-billion dollar industry, which encompasses everything from vitamins and minerals to herbal extracts and performance enhancers, operates within a complex regulatory framework that often prioritizes commerce over conclusive clinical evidence.

    Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, supplements are not required to undergo rigorous pre-market approval for efficacy by agencies like the FDA. This regulatory gap has created a marketplace where bold health assertions frequently outpace substantiated scientific research. Current analyses reveal significant discrepancies between marketing materials and actual biochemical impacts, with many products demonstrating negligible effects in controlled studies.

    Medical professionals are increasingly warning consumers about potential risks including improper dosing, contamination with undeclared substances, and dangerous interactions with prescription medications. The absence of mandatory third-party testing has resulted in quality control issues across numerous product lines.

    Health organizations now recommend consulting healthcare providers before initiating any supplement regimen, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, chronically ill patients, and children. This cautionary approach highlights the growing consensus that while some supplements offer genuine benefits, many others provide expensive placebo effects at best, and potential health hazards at worst.

    The industry’s future likely hinges on implementing stricter manufacturing standards, enforcing accuracy in labeling claims, and conducting large-scale clinical trials to separate scientifically validated supplements from those merely capitalizing on wellness trends.

  • Essentiële medicijnen niet alleen op papier, maar ook in de apotheek

    Essentiële medicijnen niet alleen op papier, maar ook in de apotheek

    Suriname’s healthcare sector witnesses a significant advancement as Minister André Misiekaba of Health, Welfare, and Labor officially installed the reconstituted National Medicines Compendium Commission on Friday. This strategic move aims to safeguard population-wide access to essential and reimbursable medications through systematic oversight.

    Chaired by healthcare expert Els Dams, the commission embarks on a three-year mandate to identify and classify medically vital pharmaceuticals eligible for insurance coverage. Dams emphasized the compendium’s critical role beyond administrative functionality, stating: “This document serves as a crucial benchmark for healthcare quality and accessibility. Medication inclusion mandates actual patient availability—not merely theoretical coverage.”

    The commission confronts the complex challenge of balancing therapeutic necessity against fiscal constraints. With many innovative drugs carrying substantial cost burdens, Dams cautioned: “Unrestricted inclusion of all new medications would exhaust our annual budget within months.” To navigate this dilemma, the committee will align its decisions with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines while respecting domestic financial limitations.

    A persistent issue involves the discrepancy between formal listings and pharmacy shelf availability. The commission plans to engage insurers and pharmacies through ministerial coordination to bridge this implementation gap, ensuring reimbursement policies translate into tangible access.

    Minister Misiekaba has requested an initial evaluation within three to six months, expressing confidence in the team’s expertise: “This composition strengthens our healthcare foundation.” Notably, the physical compendium becomes obsolete, with digital platforms now providing real-time updates on approved medications.

  • Wereldlepradag: lepra bestaat nog in Suriname, maar is volledig te genezen

    Wereldlepradag: lepra bestaat nog in Suriname, maar is volledig te genezen

    Despite being fully curable, leprosy continues to affect communities in Suriname, with new cases emerging annually—often diagnosed at advanced stages due to persistent stigma and public unawareness. World Leprosy Day, observed on the last Sunday of January, serves as a critical platform to raise awareness, dismantle misconceptions, and promote solidarity with those affected.

    Leprosy, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, is a chronic infectious disease transmitted through prolonged close contact. It manifests as numb skin patches, nodules, and nerve damage, particularly in the extremities. Without early intervention, it can lead to permanent physical impairments.

    In Suriname, an average of 10 to 20 new cases are reported each year, with 12 confirmed in 2025. The Dermatology Service emphasizes that early detection and treatment can prevent disabilities in nearly all instances and confirms that the disease is entirely curable.

    In a significant step toward eradication, the Dermatology Service, in collaboration with Belgium’s Institute of Tropical Medicine, is launching a nationwide research initiative in 2026. This project will evaluate the effectiveness of single or double-dose preventive medication for close contacts of leprosy patients. The study will extend across all districts and continue through the end of 2027.

    The World Health Organization’s (WHO) theme for 2026, “Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma,” highlights the profound social and psychological repercussions faced by patients, often stemming from misinformation. The WHO urges global efforts to increase education, encourage open dialogue, and actively combat discrimination.

    Critical facts dispel common fears: the leprosy bacterium is one of the least contagious pathogens, requiring prolonged, intensive exposure for transmission. Patients become non-infectious after their first treatment, making fear and exclusion unwarranted.

    The Dermatology Service urges the public to seek information and timely medical evaluation for any suspicious skin patches or numb nodules, especially on the ears and nose. Through collective action, Suriname aims to build a future free from leprosy, fear, and stigma.

    For expert care and guidance, the Dermatology Service is located at Tourtonnelaan #5, with registration hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00–11:00 AM.

  • Health : More than twenty ambulances repaired and put back into service

    Health : More than twenty ambulances repaired and put back into service

    Haiti’s healthcare infrastructure has received a significant boost with the successful restoration of more than twenty ambulances previously sidelined by mechanical failures. This comprehensive rehabilitation initiative, spearheaded by the National Ambulance Center (CAN) since early 2025, represents a strategic nationwide effort to strengthen emergency medical response capabilities across all departments.

    Under the coordinated leadership of CAN Director General Renand Aristide and Administrative and Financial Director Leconte Dor, the program has achieved remarkable regional successes. The Great South region has witnessed the reactivation of over ten emergency vehicles through extensive repairs and systematic maintenance performed by CAN’s specialized technical teams.

    The Northern Region has demonstrated particularly impressive outcomes. In the Northwest territory, a dedicated team of four mechanics under Garage Head Carlo Mompoint executed central administration directives to restore eight long-dormant ambulances to operational status. Complementing these efforts, the department received an additional new vehicle to further enhance its emergency fleet capacity.

    Concurrent operations in the North and Fort-Liberté areas addressed three ambulances suffering from critical mechanical failures. These targeted interventions have substantially improved regional emergency response readiness, ensuring communities regain access to rapid and functional medical transportation services.

    The sight of mechanics working tirelessly on vehicle maintenance has transformed into operational ambulances now actively serving populations again. This systematic approach to rebuilding emergency medical infrastructure marks a crucial step in addressing healthcare accessibility challenges throughout Haiti’s diverse regions.

  • Urgent Appeal Issued for O-Negative Blood Donations

    Urgent Appeal Issued for O-Negative Blood Donations

    The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has declared a critical shortage of O-negative blood supplies, triggering an emergency response from health authorities. Medical administrators have mobilized a public donation campaign targeting compatible donors to prevent potential healthcare disruptions.

    In an official communiqué, hospital management outlined the severity of the situation, emphasizing that current reserves have fallen to dangerously inadequate levels. The facility’s Blood Bank division, situated on the first floor of the laboratory building, has extended operational hours from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily to accommodate urgent donations.

    O-negative blood maintains unique clinical significance as the universal donor type, making it indispensable for emergency medicine when patient blood typing isn’t immediately possible. Hematology specialists emphasize that deficits in this particular blood component directly compromise trauma response capabilities, surgical procedures, and critical care interventions.

    The medical center has established direct communication channels for prospective donors, requesting inquiries through telephone number 484-2720. Healthcare professionals underscore that individual contributions possess exponential lifesaving potential, with single donations potentially benefiting multiple recipients across various medical disciplines.

    Hospital authorities have extended gratitude to potential donors while stressing the time-sensitive nature of the shortage. The appeal highlights the community-dependent nature of blood supply chains and the vital role civilian donors play in maintaining healthcare system resilience.

  • MOH clarifies leprosy myths, misconceptions

    MOH clarifies leprosy myths, misconceptions

    In a decisive move to combat persistent misinformation, Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has launched a public education campaign emphasizing that leprosy is entirely curable and that social stigma represents the primary barrier to its eradication.

    The Ministry’s statement, timed with World Leprosy Day (January 25), highlights how medical advancements have transformed leprosy from a historically feared disease into a manageable condition. Free and effective treatment is readily accessible through dermatology clinics at wellness centers nationwide.

    Observed under the theme “Leprosy is Curable; the Real Challenge is Stigma,” World Leprosy Day 2026 spotlights the disconnect between medical reality and public perception. Health officials acknowledge significant therapeutic progress while noting that misinformation continues to perpetuate fear, silence, and social isolation among affected individuals.

    Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease affecting the skin, nerves, eyes, and respiratory tract, becomes non-transmissible within days of starting treatment. The Ministry stresses that early detection and proper medical intervention prevent permanent disability, enabling patients to maintain normal lives and livelihoods.

    Despite medical certainty, deep-rooted stigma persists through misconceptions about transmission methods, curability, and supernatural associations. These false beliefs frequently delay treatment-seeking behavior and inflict psychological trauma that lingers beyond medical recovery.

    The health authority urges public cooperation in disseminating factual information, demonstrating compassion, and supporting affected community members. Citizens are advised to seek immediate medical consultation upon observing symptoms including pale skin patches with diminished sensation, body nodules, or recurrent burns and ulcers on extremities.

    Notably, the Ministry confirms that preventive treatment is available without charge for close contacts of diagnosed individuals, representing a crucial component of transmission interruption.

    Health officials maintain that leprosy elimination in Saint Lucia is medically achievable, but eliminating stigma demands collective societal effort. The Ministry reaffirms that no individual should face discrimination or exclusion due to a preventable and curable health condition.

  • One-third of beds active at Falmouth Hospital despite Hurricane Melissa damage

    One-third of beds active at Falmouth Hospital despite Hurricane Melissa damage

    FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has confirmed that Falmouth Public General Hospital continues to provide critical services despite sustaining substantial damage from Hurricane Melissa. Currently, only 57 of the facility’s 140 beds remain operational, representing approximately one-third of its total capacity.

    During a comprehensive assessment tour this past Saturday, Minister Tufton evaluated repair progress and consulted with administrative and clinical staff. He reported that two-thirds of the hospital’s bed capacity had been compromised by the hurricane, creating significant operational constraints.

    The hospital administration has implemented adaptive measures to maintain emergency services, including relocating the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department to a previously unused COVID-19 ward that underwent rapid repairs. This temporary solution ensures continued emergency care availability despite the ongoing reconstruction efforts.

    Among the most severely damaged areas is the A&E department, which requires complete roof replacement. Construction crews are elevating and reinforcing the roof structure with concrete slabs to enhance future storm resistance. The dietary department also suffered substantial roof damage, though temporary arrangements have been established while repairs continue.

    Minister Tufton emphasized the importance of utilizing primary healthcare facilities during this recovery period, urging Trelawny parish residents to visit local health centers for non-emergency care. “I appeal to citizens to recognize the inconveniences and utilize health centers as first stops unless facing absolute emergencies,” he stated, while assuring that emergency medical services remain available at the hospital.

    The Ministry of Health has targeted March for full completion of repairs, though officials are encouraging contractors to accelerate the timeline where possible. The ongoing situation presents temporary challenges for healthcare delivery throughout the parish as recovery efforts continue.

  • Renovation works intensifying at Noel Holmes Hospital after Melissa damage

    Renovation works intensifying at Noel Holmes Hospital after Melissa damage

    HANOVER, Jamaica — With approximately one month remaining until project completion, renovation efforts at Hanover’s Noel Holmes Hospital are advancing in a meticulously controlled manner, successfully avoiding patient overcrowding issues that have plagued other medical facilities. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed the positive progress following his comprehensive inspection tour this past Saturday.

    Minister Tufton, engaging with press representatives after evaluating the institution, emphasized the hospital’s exceptional operational management. “Among the facilities I’ve recently assessed, this one demonstrates remarkable control with no signs of patient overcrowding, as consistently reported by both clinical and administrative leadership,” Tufton stated.

    The ministerial visit formed part of a broader evaluation initiative covering six medical institutions impacted by previous catastrophic weather events, including Mandeville Regional Hospital, Black River Hospital, Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, Cornwall Regional Hospital, and Falmouth Public General Hospital. The 60-bed Noel Holmes Hospital presents a stark contrast to Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, which, despite its original 218-bed capacity, currently accommodates 298 patients between its primary structure and temporary field hospital.

    Critical emergency services at Noel Holmes remain fully functional, with Tufton noting that the Accident and Emergency department maintains comfortable operations, managing approximately 40 patient cases daily. This efficiency is bolstered by collaborative support from a Spanish-based non-governmental organization, which has established an emergency field unit complete with operational theater capabilities and supplementary bed capacity.

    Renovation activities are concurrently advancing across multiple hospital sectors, including comprehensive upgrades to nursing quarters, dietary service facilities, and maternity ward infrastructure. Construction teams have successfully executed roof removal and structural reinforcement procedures, with concrete slab installation scheduled for imminent implementation.

    Additionally, Minister Tufton provided progress updates regarding the nearby Lucea Health Centre, where roofing replacement has been finalized. Healthcare staff are anticipated to resume primary care services within the facility during the upcoming week, despite minor outstanding roofing requirements in limited sections.

    — Anthony Lewis

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Sunday January 25th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Sunday January 25th 2026

    The global dietary supplement market is undergoing significant transformation as regulatory bodies and health experts call for enhanced oversight. With consumers increasingly turning to vitamins, minerals, and herbal products for wellness support, questions regarding efficacy, safety, and manufacturing standards have moved to the forefront of public health discussions.

    Recent developments indicate regulatory agencies are strengthening monitoring systems to address quality control issues and misleading marketing claims. The industry, valued at approximately $150 billion worldwide, has experienced exponential growth despite varying regulatory frameworks across different jurisdictions. Scientific communities continue to debate the actual health benefits of many popular supplements, with research outcomes often presenting conflicting evidence.

    Manufacturers now face mounting pressure to implement more rigorous testing protocols and provide transparent labeling. Consumer advocacy groups have intensified campaigns for mandatory third-party verification and clearer disclosure of potential side effects. Medical professionals increasingly recommend that patients consult healthcare providers before incorporating supplements into their regimens, particularly when combining them with prescription medications.

    The digital era has further complicated the landscape through the proliferation of online marketplaces and social media influencers promoting unverified products. International health organizations are collaborating to establish harmonized standards while developing public education initiatives about supplement safety and appropriate usage.