News
Delegation from the Ministry of Health and Human Services attends 61st Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO)
PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH
AND HUMAN SERVICES
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Thursday, 10 October 2024: At the 61st Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) held in Washington, D.C., from 30 September to 4 October 2024, the Ministry of Health and Human Services was represented by senior officials, including Permanent Secretary Mrs Desiree Lewis, Chief Medical Officer Dr Nadia Astwood, Director of Health Policy and Planning Mr Lynrod Brooks, and the Director of Aged-Care and Rehabilitation. These health leaders, along with Ministers of Health, public health experts, and other officials from other countries across The Americas, engaged in crucial discussions focused on improving regional health systems and addressing major public health challenges.
Key policy decisions during the council revolved around strengthening digital health frameworks and long-term care, aligning with global health goals such as disease elimination and health equity. Special emphasis was placed on telemedicine, plans for the eradication of diseases, including cervical cancer, and the development of sustainable health strategies. The event also focused on bolstering collaboration among member states to tackle shared health issues such as communicable diseases, chronic conditions and health emergencies.
Permanent Secretary of Health, Mrs Desiree Lewis, recently commented on the importance of the HEARTS initiative in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) as a key strategy to combat the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). She highlighted that the rollout of this initiative is critical in addressing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, which are prevalent across the region. By focusing on strengthening primary healthcare and promoting healthier lifestyles, the HEARTS initiative aims to reduce the risk factors associated with these chronic diseases and improve overall health outcomes in the TCI.
In addition to the HEARTS initiative, Mrs Lewis emphasised the necessity of developing and implementing a comprehensive policy for the elderly. With an ageing population, the need for structured care and support systems for older individuals is becoming increasingly urgent. The policy would ensure that the elderly receive adequate care and protection, particularly in areas such as aged care services and rehabilitation. She stressed that addressing the needs of this vulnerable group is essential for ensuring equitable healthcare for all citizens.
The Ministry of Health is working closely with PAHO to draft a National Policy for Healthy Ageing and the launch of the ICOPE (Integrated Care of Older People) Registration Programme and Decade of Healthy Ageing. A series of consultations have already taken place and further engagements are scheduled for early November 2024. The first draft of the policy is expected to be ready by early next year, in line with the broader resolutions discussed at the council aimed at strengthening health systems, including long-term care and promoting equity.
The Ministry and PAHO are committed to continued consultations and collaborative efforts to ensure that the policy is inclusive, evidence-based, and capable of addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by elderly populations.
For additional information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
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By LEDEDRA MARCHE
Bahamas Information Services
GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas – Confident that Team Bahamas will once again do the country proud at the CARIFTA Games, Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey told the Grand Bahama contingent worshipping at New Destiny Kingdom Center on Sunday, April 13, 2025 that they were already stars.
The 2025 CARIFTA Aquatics and Athletics Championships are being held in Trinidad and Tobago from April 19-22.
Minister Moxey reminded the outstanding athletes that it is because of their dedication, discipline and determination they have been chosen and that they symbolize the hope, strength and resilience that the residents of Grand Bahama are known for.
“You athletes are about to represent our beautiful island and proudly carry The Bahamas’ banner with pride at the CARIFTA Games in Trinidad. Today we unite to celebrate this achievement and we want you to know that you are already champions in our eyes,” she said.
Cognizant that their journey has not been easy, Minister Moxey said they stayed the course — rising early, training hard and making sacrifices.
She pointed out that the athletes are now standing on the edge of greatness; carrying their dreams, hopes and pride in Grand Bahama Island with them.
Minister Moxey encouraged the athletes, as they step on to the track, field or into the pool, to represent The Bahamas with excellence.
“Compete with heart and remember that your island and your nation are cheering you on every step of the way. Go forward knowing that you and your coaches are covered in prayer; surrounded by love and supported by a proud Grand Bahama family,” she said.
“May God’s favour go before you, may he protect each of you on this journey and may His Grace carry you to victory.”
Representatives from the City of Freeport Council were also in attendance, and Chief Councillor Kendal Culmer also brought remarks.
PHOTO CAPTION – Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey encouraged the Grand Bahama contingent of Team Bahamas worshipping at New Destiny Kingdom Center on Sunday, April 13, 2025 before they left to compete in the 2025 CARIFTA Aquatics and Athletics Championships in Trinidad and Tobago set for April 19-22.
(BIS Photos/Andrew Miller)
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