Health
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital Celebrates 16 Years of Advancing Quality Care and Innovation
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands – April 9, 2026 – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital (TCIH), operated by InterHealth Canada, proudly marks 16 years of service to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, celebrating a legacy of delivering safe, high-quality, and evidence-based care since opening its doors 10th April 2010.
Background: Public-Private Partnership Model
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is delivered through a public-private partnership (PPP) between the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands and InterHealth Canada Limited (ICL). In January 2008, InterHealth Canada entered into an agreement with
the Government to design, build, finance and operate the country’s acute secondary healthcare facilities. This partnership was established almost two decades ago aimed to modernize healthcare infrastructure, improve access to services and ensure the delivery of high-quality care aligned with international standards.
Under this model, hospital operations are delivered through two specialized entities operating within the InterHealth Canada framework:
A clinical services company, responsible for the delivery of all medical and clinical care
A facilities management company, responsible for infrastructure, maintenance and non-clinical support services
Both entities operate under InterHealth Canada Limited, have distinct management structures and provide services in accordance with the terms outlined in the Project Agreement with the Government.
The hospital services were officially commissioned on April 10, 2010, with:
20 inpatient beds at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre
10 inpatient beds at Cockburn Town Medical Centre
Importantly, both facilities collectively called the Turks & Caicos Islands Hospital (TCIH) were designed with built-in expansion capacity, including “shelled” spaces that can be retrofitted to increase inpatient bed capacity as demand grows. This forward-looking design on the part of the Turks & Caicos Islands Government aimed to support long-term scalability and enables the health system to respond to the evolving needs of the population.
Since its establishment, TCIH has transformed healthcare delivery across the islands through infrastructure development, international partnerships and a steadfast commitment to clinical excellence. The hospital system, comprising facilities in Providenciales and Grand Turk, introduced a new era of accessible, comprehensive care for residents and visitors alike.
A Legacy of Quality and International Recognition
Since its establishment, TCIH has maintained a strong focus on quality improvement and patient safety. Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital continues to distinguish itself as one of the few internationally accredited hospitals systems in the Caribbean, reflecting a sustained commitment to quality, safety and accountability. TCIH has maintained Accreditation Canada International accreditation at the Diamond level since 2012, the highest level achievable under the program, demonstrating consistent compliance with rigorous global standards in patient safety, governance and clinical care. Accreditation Canada’s Qmentum Global program is an internationally recognized framework used in more than 40 countries to drive continuous quality improvement, strengthen safety culture and ensure evidence-based care delivery across health systems. Within the Caribbean, hospitals achieving full international accreditation remain relatively limited, underscoring the significance of TCIH’s achievement.
As a growing centre for education and workforce development, TCIH has played a pivotal role in building local capacity within the healthcare sector. In 2019, the hospital achieved accreditation through the University of the West Indies accreditation body to support physician internship training, marking a major step toward developing a sustainable, homegrown medical workforce.
The hospital has also delivered a robust institutional training program since inception, supporting several health professionals across the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through collaborations with the Ministry of Education, TCIH has hosted one of their largest cohorts of interns and apprentices, while partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College have enabled the introduction of the first clinical nursing rotations on-island.
Advancing Evidence-Based Care: Best Practice Spotlight Organization(r)
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital has further strengthened its commitment to quality care through its designation as a Best Practice Spotlight Organization(r) (BPSO(r)) by the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario in 2025. The BPSO(r) programme is an internationally recognized initiative that supports healthcare organizations in implementing and sustaining evidence-based clinical practices. Through this designation, TCIH has demonstrated its ability to integrate best practice guidelines into everyday care, improving outcomes in key areas such as patient safety, person- and family-centred care, falls prevention and pressure injury prevention. For the community, it means greater confidence that care delivered at TCIH is safe, consistent and aligned with internationally recognized standards, ultimately contributing to better patient experiences and improved health outcomes across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Advancing Surgical Safety: AORN Go Clear(tm) Award
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital has also demonstrated leadership in surgical safety through its achievement of the AORN Go Clear(tm)
Award in 2020, an international recognition granted by the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses. The Go Clear(tm) Award recognizes healthcare facilities that have successfully implemented a comprehensive surgical smoke evacuation program, ensuring that operating theatres are effectively “smoke-free.” Surgical smoke-produced during procedures using lasers or electrosurgical devices-can contain harmful chemicals, toxic gases, and biological particles that pose risks to both patients and healthcare professionals. By meeting AORN’s stringent criteria, TCIH demonstrated that it has:
Adopted standardized protocols for smoke evacuation in surgical procedures
Equipped operating rooms with appropriate smoke evacuation technology
Trained clinical teams in safe surgical practices
Embedded a culture of safety within perioperative care
At the time of receiving this recognition in 2020, Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital was recognized as the first hospital in the Caribbean to achieve the AORN Go Clear(tm) Award, marking a significant milestone for patient safety and clinical excellence in the region. For patients, this achievement translates into safer surgical environments, reduced exposure to harmful airborne contaminants, and alignment with international best practices in operating room care. For healthcare professionals, it reflects a workplace that prioritizes occupational health and safety, reducing long-term exposure to surgical smoke and supporting a safer, more sustainable clinical environment.
Investing in the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is committed to building a sustainable healthcare workforce by inspiring and developing the next generation of health professionals. Through its READY Programme, TCIH provides high school students across the Turks and Caicos Islands with early exposure to careers in healthcare. The programme introduces students to a wide range of clinical and non-clinical roles, helping them better understand the pathways into the health sector and equipping them with foundational knowledge and career guidance. Complementing this initiative is the hospital’s Clinical Observership Programme, which offers students currently pursuing tertiary education in health sciences the opportunity to spend their summer months immersed in the hospital environment. Participants gain valuable hands-on exposure by shadowing experienced healthcare professionals, while also benefiting from structured mentorship and professional development support. Together, these programmes reflect TCIH’s commitment to nurturing local talent, strengthening workforce capacity and supporting long-term sustainability within the health system-ensuring that future generations are equipped to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The hospital has also contributed to workforce development in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through partnerships with the Ministry of Education National Internship and Apprentice program and the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College. Further strengthening professional development, TCIH has worked closely with the Health Professionals Authority to introduce nurse clinical examinations locally. In collaboration with international partners, including the Hamilton Education Foundation, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, TCIH has supported the introduction of Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) training within the islands-enhancing emergency care capacity and preparedness.
Building Life-Saving Skills in the Community
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital has also played a leading role in strengthening emergency response capacity across the islands through education and training. TCIH is recognized as the first fully accredited training centre in the Turks and Caicos Islands under the American Heart Association, delivering a comprehensive suite of internationally recognized resuscitation programmes. Through this initiative, the hospital provides annual training to more than 300 participants, including healthcare professionals, first responders and members of the wider community. These programmes focus on essential life-saving skills such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), first aid, and advanced resuscitation techniques. By expanding access to this training, TCIH is helping to build a more resilient community, equipping individuals with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively in emergencies and improving outcomes in critical situations. This achievement reflects the hospital’s broader commitment not only to delivering high-quality clinical care, but also to empowering the community with the skills needed to save lives.
Rising Utilization Reflects Growing Demand for Hospital Services
TCIH’s milestone comes at a time of rapid national growth, placing increasing demand on healthcare services. According to the Turks and Caicos Islands Statistics Authority, the population has grown significantly-from 18,491 in 2000 to 50,828 in 2024-while total visitor arrivals reached approximately 1.81 million in 2024, driven largely by continued expansion in the tourism sector. This growth trajectory is expected to continue. The Government’s National Tourism Development Strategy projects an increase in registered accommodation rooms to over 6,000 by 2032, reflecting sustained expansion in the hospitality sector and further growth in visitor and migrant workforce numbers. This demand is further intensified by the rising prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases, which is contributing to greater complexity in care delivery and placing sustained pressure on both critical care services, outpatient visits and overseas referrals. At the same time, the hospital is closely monitoring an increase in trauma-related cases, adding another layer of demand on emergency and acute care services.
Over the past fourteen years, Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital has experienced a significant increase in patient activity, reflecting both national population growth and rising demand for healthcare services. Between February 2012 and February 2026, total patient encounters across the hospital system increased from 5,841 to 9,050, representing a substantial rise in overall service utilization. This growth has been particularly pronounced in outpatient care, where on-island clinic visits more than doubled, increasing from 2,617 to 6,439 encounters over the same period.
At Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, the impact of this demand is most evident in inpatient services. Bed occupancy levels have risen from an already high 85.34% in February 2012 to 115.71% in February 2026, indicating sustained periods where demand has exceeded available bed capacity.
These trends are creating capacity challenges across several key areas:
Inpatient beds – High occupancy driven by medical complexity and longer lengths of stay
Emergency Department – Increased patient volumes, acuity and trauma presentations
Outpatient Clinics – Growing demand for both on-island and visiting specialist services
Laboratory Services – Expanded testing needs to support chronic disease management and acute care
Diagnostic Imaging – Increased reliance on ultrasound, CT, MRI and other imaging to support timely diagnosis and treatment
These trends underscore the critical need for greater investment in expanding services at TCIH to support reliable, high-quality healthcare services to both residents and the millions of visitors who travel to the islands each year and reduce the need the overseas care.
Recognising the Strength of Our People
At the heart of Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital’s success over the past 16 years is the dedication, professionalism and compassion of our
naturally excellent team. TCIH recognizes that the strength of its services lies in its people-highly skilled and committed healthcare professionals and support teams who work every day to deliver safe, high-quality care to the community. Across both Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, our team continue to demonstrate resilience, teamwork and an unwavering focus on patient-centred care, even as demand for services continues to grow.
The Board of Directors of InterHealth Canada extends its sincere appreciation to all members of the TCIH team for their outstanding contributions over the years.
“We recognize and deeply value the commitment of our facilities management and clinical services team, whose daily efforts make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families across the Turks and Caicos Islands. Their dedication, expertise and compassion are the foundation of the hospital’s success. As we celebrate this milestone, we thank them for their continued service and for the vital role they play in supporting the health and wellbeing of the community.”
Dr. Denise Brathwaite-Tennant, CEO, highlighted the importance of forward planning and partnership: “As we celebrate 16 years of service, we are proud of how far we have come in transforming healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Our achievements reflect the dedication, expertise and compassion of our entire team, who continue to place patients and families at the centre of everything we do. As demand for healthcare continues to grow, driven by population increases, chronic disease and evolving patient needs, we are seeing sustained pressure across all areas of the hospital, including critical care, outpatient services and emergency care. We are also closely monitoring the rise in trauma cases, which further underscores the need for responsive and resilient systems. In collaboration with our partners, we continue to advocate for the additional resources and investments required to meet this rising demand and to ensure we maintain safe, high-quality care for our community. We remain committed to working collaboratively with our key partners the Ministry of Health and the National Health Insurance Board to strengthen capacity, enhance service delivery and plan strategically for the future, ensuring that the health system continues to meet the needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Health system is among only a handful in the U.S. to offer the minimally invasive robotic procedure Cleveland Clinic is among the first hospitals in the country – and the first in Ohio – to perform a robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy procedure, following recent clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Stephanie Valente, D.O., and a surgical team recently performed the first robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate breast cancer
reconstruction at Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital. The procedure offers a new minimally invasive approach to breast cancer surgery and risk-reducing mastectomy for patients at elevated risk.
This milestone places Cleveland Clinic among a select group of centers nationwide offering the advanced technology and brings one of the newest innovations in breast cancer surgery to patients in Northeast Ohio.
“This robotic approach offers greater precision through a much smaller incision, which can mean less visible scarring and faster recovery,” said Dr. Valente, director of the Cleveland Clinic Breast Surgery Fellowship Program and director of the West Region Multidisciplinary Breast Program. “Compared with the traditional procedure, which requires a larger incision, this approach can improve cosmetic outcomes, preserve the skin and nipple, and support a more natural appearance after surgery.”
During the procedure, surgeons use a 3D camera and robotic instruments inserted through a small incision of one inch, typically hidden along the side of the breast rather than across the underside, to remove breast tissue while preserving the nipple, areola and skin. The robotic platform, the da Vinci SP Surgical System, provides enhanced visualization and precision while minimizing disruption to the overlying skin.
Robotic surgery gives the surgeon better visualization of the operative field in what is typically a technically challenging procedure. This
enhanced view can improve nerve identification and preservation, reduce blood loss and allow surgeons to perform the same oncologic operation through a one-inch incision rather than the traditional five-inch open incision.
The robotic approach removes the same breast tissue as a conventional mastectomy, while changing how the surgeon accesses the breast. For some patients, breast reconstruction can be performed during the same operation.
This approach is designed to reduce scarring, enhance cosmetic outcomes, preserve the natural skin envelope and nipple, improve sensation and accelerate recovery. For some patients, the less visible incision may also support confidence and body image after surgery. The procedure further expands Cleveland Clinic’s minimally invasive breast surgery options, which include endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy.
“As a field, we haven’t had many new options for patients with breast surgery for a decade now, so we are pleased to now have these minimally invasive procedures available for our patients,” said Dr. Valente. “Innovations like this support a more patient-centered experience as they allow us to address both the physical and emotional realities of breast cancer.”
Nassau, Bahamas, 1 October 2026 – Every Saturday this month, communities across The Bahamas will take steps in support of cancer patients and survivors as CIBC Caribbean’s Walk for the Cure returns to New Providence, Abaco, Eleuthera, and Grand Bahama.
CIBC Caribbean Head of Country, Terrance Gibson, said, “Each Saturday in October represents another community coming together,
another opportunity to raise awareness and, most importantly, more support for the organizations that are doing this work every day.”
The month of activities begins this Saturday, October 3, in New Providence, with participants gathering at the Goodman’s Bay Corporate Centre for a 6:30am start.
CIBC Caribbean Walk Champion, Antionette Fox, said the series of walks gives communities across the country an opportunity to contribute to a cause that directly supports Bahamian cancer organizations.
“Every Saturday for the month of October, there will be a walk that you can participate in to contribute towards this worthy cause,” Fox said.
In New Providence, the morning will extend beyond the walk itself, with Zumba, wellness activities, informational vendors, and opportunities for participants to connect with organizations working directly with cancer patients and survivors.
Gennie Dean Caring and Sharing Cancer Support Group President Duquesa Dean said participants do not have to complete the full route to be part of the morning.
“Just come out…there is something for everyone, come for the community,” Dean said. “There’s a survivor ceremony, so come and
participate and celebrate the people who have gone through cancer and are here as evidence that you could live after a cancer diagnosis.”
The Gennie Dean Caring and Sharing Cancer Support Group is one of eight cancer organizations in The Bahamas that benefit from funds raised through Walk for the Cure. The others are the Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Groups of New Providence and Grand Bahama, Cancer Society of The Bahamas, the Cancer Societies of Abaco, Eleuthera, and Grand Bahama, and the Cancer Association of Grand Bahama.
Dean explained that CIBC Caribbean covers the cost of staging WFTC, allowing donations raised to support the work of beneficiary organizations.
For her organization, that assistance translates into tangible support for people navigating cancer, including food assistance, financial aid, prosthetic breasts, and mastectomy bras, as well as programs such as Step Into Wellness, which promotes movement and healthy living among cancer patients and survivors.
Corporate partners are also helping to strengthen this year’s effort. Bamboo Shack has joined the initiative as a gold sponsor, with representative Ghandi Pinder sharing that the cause has a personal significance for her.
Pinder recalled shaving her hair in solidarity with her sister after she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer and began losing her hair during chemotherapy.
“We see you, we’re here with you, we’re in it with you,” Pinder said of Bamboo Shack’s message to those affected by cancer.
She also encouraged more of Corporate Bahamas to support initiatives that directly impact the communities they serve.
“At Bamboo Shack, we always say a better Bahamas begins with you… Together, we can make a difference,” she said.
Registration for Walk for the Cure is $30 for adults and $15 for children and can be completed at any CIBC Caribbean branch. CIBC Caribbean clients can also donate through online banking.
The New Providence Walk begins promptly at 6:30am on Saturday, October 3, at the Goodman’s Bay Corporate Centre, followed by Walk for the Cure events in other islands each Saturday throughout October. The Grand Bahama WFTC event will be held on October 10 and the Abaco and Eleuthera WFTC events will occur on October 17 and October 24 respectively.
Gibson added, “Some will walk for themselves, some in celebration of a survivor, and others in memory of someone they have lost. Whatever brings you to Walk for the Cure, every person who shows up becomes part of a much bigger expression of support for those affected by cancer.”
Health
TCI Hospital Marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 with “Know. Check. Act. Support.” Campaign
Ten-Year Cancer Register Profile reinforces the importance of breast awareness, appropriate screening, timely diagnosis and continuing cancer care
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – 1st October 2026 – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital (TCI Hospital) is marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 with a month-long public awareness campaign under the theme “Know. Check. Act. Support. – Early Detection Saves Lives.”
This year’s campaign is being informed by TCI Hospital’s Ten-Year Cancer Register Profile, 2016–2025, which demonstrates that breast
cancer remains an important and continuing healthcare issue for patients, families and the wider Turks and Caicos Islands community.
Throughout the ten-year period, TCI Hospital continued to record new cases of malignant neoplasms of the breast each year. Annual new registrations fluctuated, reinforcing an important message: breast cancer is not an occasional concern confined to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it requires sustained awareness, appropriate screening, timely investigation and diagnosis, access to treatment, follow-up and support throughout the year.
What Our Cancer Register Tells Us
The TCI Hospital Cancer Register recorded 21 new breast cancer cases in 2016, the highest annual figure reported during the ten-year profile. In subsequent years, the overall annual new-case count ranged from 8 to 18 cases, with 18 new cases recorded in 2024 and 10 in 2025.
The register also demonstrates the continuing accumulation of breast cancer cases within the hospital’s cancer records. The total registered breast cancer caseload increased from 79 in 2016 to 192 by 2025. More recently, the register increased from 160 cases in 2023 to 181 in 2024 and 192 in 2025. These figures represent the hospital’s registered caseload and should not be interpreted as population incidence, prevalence or the number of people currently living with breast cancer.
Behind every registration is more than a statistic. Each represents a person whose diagnosis has implications for their family and for the healthcare professionals and services involved in cancer investigation, treatment, coordination, follow-up and support.
The ten-year profile therefore reinforces the importance not only of identifying breast cancer, but of ensuring that people affected by the disease are supported throughout their cancer journey.
Know the Signs and Act on Changes
Breast cancer can present in different ways. Changes that should prompt assessment by a healthcare professional may include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm; a change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast; dimpling, puckering or other unusual changes to the breast skin; nipple changes or unusual discharge; or another new or persistent breast change.
Finding a change does not necessarily mean that a person has cancer. However, an unexplained or persistent change should not be ignored.
TCI Hospital encourages members of the community to become familiar with what is normal for their breasts and to seek medical advice if they notice something different.
Know Your Risk. Know Your Family History.
Breast cancer risk is influenced by several factors. Understanding personal and family medical history can help individuals have more informed conversations with their healthcare providers about their individual risk.
Having no known family history of breast cancer does not mean that breast health can be ignored. Equally, people with a significant family history or other factors that may increase their risk should discuss this with an appropriate healthcare professional.
The TCI Hospital Cancer Register also records male breast cancer, reminding the community that although breast cancer predominantly affects women, it can also occur in men.
Screening and Early Diagnosis Matter
Breast awareness and screening have different but complementary purposes. Screening is intended to identify possible breast abnormalities in people who may not have symptoms, while a new or concerning breast change requires appropriate clinical assessment.
There is no single screening approach that is appropriate for every individual. TCI Hospital therefore encourages people to discuss their age, personal risk factors, family history and appropriate breast screening with their healthcare provider.
Similarly, people experiencing a concerning breast change should not wait for their next routine screening appointment before seeking medical advice.
The campaign’s message “Early Detection Saves Lives” emphasizes the importance of timely action. It does not mean that every breast change is cancer. Rather, seeking medical attention allows appropriate investigation to take place and, where cancer is diagnosed, enables the healthcare team to determine the most appropriate next steps.
From Cancer Registration to Better Cancer Care
TCI Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant said the Cancer Register has an important role beyond recording the number of cancer cases seen by the hospital.
“Our Cancer Register is not simply about counting cases. It helps us understand the cancer burden presenting to our hospital, identify patterns over time and inform how we plan and strengthen cancer services. Behind every number is a patient, a family and a cancer journey. The continued recording of new breast cancer cases reminds us why awareness must lead to action and why our health system must continue to strengthen the pathway from appropriate screening and timely diagnosis through treatment, follow-up and survivorship support.”
“During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want our community to understand that fear should not become a reason to delay seeking care. Know what is normal for you, understand your risk, participate in screening that is appropriate for you and seek medical advice when something changes. Just as importantly, we must continue to support those undergoing cancer treatment and those living beyond a cancer diagnosis.”
Know. Check. Act. Support.
Throughout October, TCI Hospital will deliver a programme of activities designed to turn breast cancer awareness into practical action.
Activities will include an educational breast cancer awareness video addressing signs and symptoms, screening, early detection and support;
publication of findings from the TCI Hospital Ten-Year Cancer Register Profile, 2016–2025; breast cancer facts and educational messages; a special House Call – Pink Round Table addressing breast cancer risk, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship; and Pink Fridays, during which TCI Hospital team members will wear pink to promote awareness, early detection, survivorship and support.
The campaign will also highlight the important role of families, friends, caregivers, healthcare professionals and the wider community. Support can take many forms; from listening and accompanying someone to an appointment to assisting with transportation, meals, childcare or other practical needs during treatment.
TCI Hospital’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month message to the Turks and Caicos Islands community is:
KNOW – Know your body, your family history and your individual risk.
CHECK – Participate in appropriate screening and pay attention to changes.
ACT – Do not ignore a new or concerning breast change. Seek medical advice.
SUPPORT – Stand with patients, survivors, families and others affected by breast cancer.
Know. Check. Act. Support.
Early Detection Saves Lives.
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