Carib Scope

分类： health

  • Come back home, Tufton urges health professionals

    Come back home, Tufton urges health professionals

    In a bid to address critical staffing shortages in its healthcare system, Jamaica is rolling out a comprehensive strategy to attract specialized health professionals who have migrated overseas. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton announced the initiative during a press conference at S Hotel in Montego Bay, emphasizing the government’s commitment to incentivizing the return of skilled Jamaicans to fill vacant positions in medical facilities across the country.

    Dr. Tufton highlighted the severity of the issue, revealing that 27% of positions in the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) — one of Jamaica’s four health regions — remain unfilled. To tackle this, the government is collaborating with bilateral partners such as India, the Philippines, and Nigeria, while also launching targeted advertising campaigns in the United States to appeal to Jamaican expatriates.

    The minister underscored the improvements in Jamaica’s infrastructure, ongoing hospital upgrades, and efforts to reduce crime as key factors making the country an increasingly attractive place to live and work. He cited the construction of new medical facilities, including Cornwall Regional Hospital and the Western Children and Adolescents Hospital, as evidence of better working conditions on the horizon.

    In addition to recruiting overseas professionals, the government is implementing measures to retain existing healthcare workers. These include a housing program for staff, discussions with the National Housing Trust, and enhanced training opportunities. Dr. Tufton also addressed the challenges of filling specialized roles in less attractive locations, noting that staffing gaps have led to overworked employees and compromised service quality.

    The minister urged regional health authorities to adopt proactive and creative recruitment strategies to alleviate the burden on current staff and ensure the healthcare system operates efficiently. ‘We are saying to Jamaicans in the Diaspora: Come back home. We have a place for you,’ Dr. Tufton concluded, expressing hope that the incentives and improvements would encourage many to return.

  • MPower-ing conversation on M Factor today

    MPower-ing conversation on M Factor today

    In anticipation of World Menopause Day on October 18, MPower, a Jamaican women-led advocacy group dedicated to transforming the dialogue around menopause in the Caribbean, is set to host an enlightening event titled ‘MPower Yourself.’ Scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 5:30 pm at Scotiabank’s Corporate Learning Centre in Kingston, the evening promises to be a blend of education, storytelling, and community engagement for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause.

    The highlight of the event will be the screening of the internationally acclaimed documentary, *The M Factor*. This film delves into the often-overlooked physical, emotional, and professional challenges women face during menopause, such as hot flashes, anxiety, weight fluctuations, and workplace discrimination. Featuring expert commentary from renowned medical professionals like Dr. Sharon Malone, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin (Yale), Dr. Wen Shen (Johns Hopkins), and Dr. Stephanie Faubion (Mayo Clinic and The Menopause Society), the documentary also sheds light on the unique experiences of women of color during this life stage.

    Sacha Chung, an occupational therapist and co-creator of MPower, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, ‘This is not just a film screening; it’s a turning point for women in Jamaica. We want women to feel seen, informed, and confident in speaking about their health and demanding the support they deserve at home, in the workplace, and in healthcare settings.’

    Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a live Q&A session with a panel of women’s health experts. Dr. Kudzai Dombo, a US-based OB-GYN and Menopause Society certified practitioner, will discuss the distinct ways menopause manifests in women of color. Dr. Dainia Baugh, president of the Heart Institute of the Caribbean, will explore the critical connection between menopause and cardiovascular health. Dr. Michelle Bailey, a reproductive health specialist at the Hugh Wynter Fertility Management Unit, will provide insights on maintaining sexual and reproductive wellness through mid-life and beyond.

    Jodi Mair, a fitness professional and MPower co-founder, highlighted the event’s mission, saying, ‘Many women suffer in silence. This event is about breaking that silence and helping women feel empowered to take control of their health and well-being.’

    MPower was founded by Sacha Chung, Jodi Mair, and entrepreneurs Elena Diedrick-Lynch and Leisha Wong, co-directors of Elle Creative. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise in wellness, advocacy, and storytelling, united by a shared commitment to creating spaces where women can feel informed, supported, and heard.

  • MPower hosts groundbreaking wellness event to empower Jamaican women ahead of World Menopause Day

    MPower hosts groundbreaking wellness event to empower Jamaican women ahead of World Menopause Day

    In anticipation of World Menopause Day on October 18, MPower, a Jamaican women-led advocacy group, is set to host an empowering event titled ‘MPower Yourself.’ Scheduled for Saturday, October 11, at 5:30 PM at the Scotiabank Corporate Learning Centre in Kingston, the evening will focus on education, storytelling, and community connection for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. The event will feature the screening of the internationally acclaimed documentary *The M Factor*, which delves into the physical, emotional, and professional challenges women face during menopause, including hot flashes, anxiety, weight changes, and workplace stigma. The film includes expert commentary from renowned medical professionals such as Dr. Sharon Malone, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin (Yale), Dr. Wen Shen (Johns Hopkins), and Dr. Stephanie Faubion (Mayo Clinic and The Menopause Society), with a particular focus on the unique experiences of women of colour. Following the screening, attendees will engage in a live Q&A session with a panel of women’s health specialists, including Dr. Kudzai Dombo, Dr. Dainia Baugh, and Dr. Michelle Bailey, who will address culturally relevant insights and critical health issues related to menopause. MPower, co-founded by Sacha Chung, Jodi Mair, and entrepreneurs Elena Diedrick-Lynch and Leisha Wong, aims to reshape the conversation around menopause in the Caribbean, emphasizing education, support, and empowerment. The event is sponsored by companies committed to holistic wellness and women’s empowerment, including Chop’d, WATA, and Pure Country Juices.

  • Smaller Chinese workforce triggers delay concerns for Western Children and Adolescent Hospital

    Smaller Chinese workforce triggers delay concerns for Western Children and Adolescent Hospital

    MONTEGO BAY, St James — Dr Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Health and Wellness Minister, has expressed growing concerns regarding the downsizing of the Chinese workforce involved in the construction of the Western Children and Adolescent Hospital (WCAH) in St James. The reduction in labor has raised questions about the project’s timely completion, particularly after Chinese workers withdrew their services last month due to unresolved payment issues.

  • Open dag op de poli

    Open dag op de poli

    On World Mental Health Day, we take a rare look into the psychiatrist’s office, where the primary tools are not just medical instruments but the psychiatrist’s own qualities of honesty, openness, sincerity, reliability, and empathy. These are essential for uncovering deep-seated inner turmoil and peculiarities. Today, ten patients are seen, each with their unique struggles and stories.

    The first patient is a despondent police officer who has lost his zest for life, burdened by shame and fear of judgment. Initially reserved, he gradually opens up, showing a willingness to work towards recovery. The second is a lawyer with severe mood swings, who after a tumultuous year of manic episodes and deep depression, is now stabilized on lithium.

    The third patient, a civil servant, uses laughter and alcohol as shields against painful emotions. Through therapy, she begins to connect with her true feelings, evolving into a more balanced individual. A medical student, the fourth patient, battles mood swings, compulsive behaviors, and self-harm, making progress with medication and therapy aimed at emotional regulation.

    The fifth patient, an entrepreneur, struggles with the belief that he is always right, leading to conflicts. Therapy helps him gain self-awareness and find peace. The sixth patient, a woman with a history of neglect, abuse, and domestic violence, has built a stable therapeutic relationship but faces financial barriers to continuing her treatment.

    The seventh patient, a man with a history of rejection, panics and acts out when faced with rejection, finding solace in his sharp mind rather than medication. The eighth patient, a long-term attendee, reveals a shocking secret after years of therapy, highlighting the complexities of mental health.

    The ninth patient, a man with episodes of grandiosity and aggression, remains manageable with medication. The final patient, a student, finds relief in the diagnosis of ADHD, which helps him manage his symptoms and improve his academic performance.

    Mental health issues often arise from a combination of vulnerability and stress, influenced by biological and environmental factors. Therapy involves listening, correcting unrealistic thoughts, and sometimes, medication. However, broader societal issues like poverty and housing require governmental intervention. President Simons emphasized the importance of mental health in her annual address, raising questions about the allocation of GDP towards mental health services.

  • PCS benadrukt belang van geestelijke zorg bij crises

    PCS benadrukt belang van geestelijke zorg bij crises

    On World Mental Health Day, the Psychiatric Center Suriname (PCS) emphasized the critical importance of mental health care during disasters and emergencies. This year’s global theme, ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,’ underscores the necessity of adequate mental health support in times of crisis. Mental health disorders are among the most prevalent global health issues, causing not only visible suffering but also profound internal pain and tension that severely impact daily functioning. These conditions significantly contribute to the loss of healthy life years (Disability-Adjusted Life Years – DALYs), as individuals often live with long-term functional and well-being limitations. Depression, anxiety disorders, and substance dependency are leading causes of disease burden worldwide, with their impact increasingly evident in Suriname. Many individuals struggle with socioeconomic challenges, domestic violence, and addiction. ‘Many suffer in silence, yet timely intervention can facilitate effective recovery,’ stated the PCS. The center highlighted that access to care involves not only service availability but also awareness, destigmatization, and collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and society. ‘A listening ear, appropriate guidance, or a supportive social network can significantly contribute to recovery and resilience,’ the PCS added. The center called for a collective effort to create an environment in Suriname where mental health care is accessible, effective, and normalized for all.

  • Local Dentists Strongly Support Taxation of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages in Antigua and Barbuda

    Local Dentists Strongly Support Taxation of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages in Antigua and Barbuda

    The Antigua and Barbuda Dental Association (ABDA) has thrown its weight behind the taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), aligning with global efforts to curb excessive sugar consumption and improve public health. This initiative is part of a broader strategy endorsed by the World Dental Federation (FDI), which includes 193 member countries, including Antigua and Barbuda. The FDI’s 2024 Policy Statement, adopted in Istanbul, emphasizes the critical role of taxation in reducing sugar intake and promoting healthier lifestyles.

  • Minister Warns of Growing Health Threats from Diabetes and Falling Vaccination Rates

    Minister Warns of Growing Health Threats from Diabetes and Falling Vaccination Rates

    Senator Michael Joseph, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, has issued a stark warning about the escalating health challenges in Antigua and Barbuda. The nation is grappling with a dual burden: a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a concerning decline in vaccination rates globally. Speaking on ABS-TV’s ‘Government in Motion,’ Joseph emphasized that the Caribbean region currently leads in the prevalence of NCDs, which are now the primary cause of death. He highlighted high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, strokes, and cancer as the most pressing concerns, noting that these conditions are placing immense financial strain on the country’s health budget. ‘Unless we find mechanisms to address these issues, the financial demands will create a health crisis worse than the current situation,’ he stated. Joseph also expressed alarm over the global trend of declining vaccination coverage, particularly in developed nations where school vaccination requirements are being rolled back. He warned that this could lead to the resurgence of infectious diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and polio in the Caribbean. Given Antigua and Barbuda’s reliance on tourism and its strong travel connections, the senator stressed the heightened risk of imported communicable diseases. He revealed that the government is collaborating with regional and international health partners, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), to bolster prevention and treatment strategies. Joseph urged households to reconsider their stance on vaccinations, emphasizing the critical need to protect public health and avoid further strain on the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.

  • Health Records to Go Digital Across All Clinics, Joseph Announces

    Health Records to Go Digital Across All Clinics, Joseph Announces

    Antigua and Barbuda is making significant strides in modernizing its healthcare infrastructure by implementing a digital system for patient records across all public clinics. Senator Michael Joseph, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment, announced the initiative during a recent appearance on ABS-TV’s ‘Government in Motion.’ This project is a key component of the government’s Smart Health Facilities program, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

    The initiative involves the integration of patient information using the Selma software, ensuring seamless access to medical records across clinics nationwide. Senator Joseph emphasized that this system will allow healthcare providers to access patient data, including lab results and doctor reports, regardless of the clinic’s location. This innovation aims to enhance communication between hospitals and clinics, addressing gaps in the primary care system.

    The digital upgrade is part of a broader strategy to strengthen primary healthcare, following a regional health cooperation agreement signed between Antigua and Barbuda and PAHO. The government envisions a fully connected healthcare network, linking major medical centers such as the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. This transformation is expected to improve patient care, streamline healthcare delivery, and create a more resilient health system.

    By reducing the need for patients to repeat their medical history at multiple facilities, the initiative promises to make healthcare faster and more efficient. This digital transition marks a pivotal step in Antigua and Barbuda’s journey toward a modernized and responsive healthcare system.

  • PM Drew: “Mental health is not a luxury — it is a lifeline”

    PM Drew: “Mental health is not a luxury — it is a lifeline”

    On World Mental Health Day, observed globally on October 10, 2025, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis delivered a powerful message emphasizing the critical importance of mental health. Speaking under this year’s theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” Dr. Drew asserted that mental well-being is as essential as physical safety, particularly during crises. ‘Mental health is not a luxury — it is a lifeline,’ he declared, urging citizens to recognize the profound impact of emotional health in the face of disasters, pandemics, and daily stressors. Drawing from his medical expertise, the Prime Minister highlighted the lasting effects of trauma, grief, and anxiety, which often outlast physical injuries. He praised the nation’s mental health professionals — psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers — as unsung heroes who provide vital support during emergencies. Dr. Drew also outlined his government’s initiatives to enhance mental health services, including collaborations with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and community health teams. These efforts aim to integrate mental health care into emergency preparedness and public health strategies, acknowledging its connection to non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Additionally, he addressed the psychological impact of climate change, noting the rise of ‘climate anxiety’ due to extreme weather events and displacement. To improve access to care, the government is creating a national registry of mental health professionals, fostering collaboration and quality in mental health services.