Health
Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association Secures Landmark Health Insurance Partnership for Tourism Workforce
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, June 30, 2026 – The Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) has secured a landmark partnership with Caribbean Health Insurance (CHI), a product of Bee Insurance Corp, giving tourism businesses across the destination access to health coverage of up to USD 500,000 per employee.
The official signing ceremony, hosted by Beaches Turks and Caicos, capped months of work led by the TCHTA Membership Committee to identify a reputable provider capable of helping to fill a critical coverage gap in the hospitality sector.
The launch also marks a timely and significant private-sector solution to a growing healthcare coverage concern following the Government’s
recent announcement that work permit holders would no longer have access to the NHIB Treatment Abroad Program – a change that left many employees across the tourism sector, and beyond it, without the usual pathway to specialized medical care outside the Turks and Caicos Islands.
TCHTA President James McAnally said the agreement is a critical step in supporting the people who power the country’s leading industry.
“Our industry depends on people, and when something as important as access to care is affected, we have a responsibility to seek practical solutions,” said McAnally. “This partnership with Caribbean Health Insurance gives our members a comprehensive and affordable option for their teams. It is also an example of the role the TCHTA plays in advocating, responding, and creating avenues that support the sustainability of our sector.”
The Caribbean Health Insurance plan offers two tiers, CORAL and PEARL Elite, providing coverage of USD 300,000 and USD 500,000 respectively, with the PEARL plan including air ambulance service. Both grant policyholders access to a growing network of hospitals and specialists in the Dominican Republic and Colombia, with Jamaica expected to join the network later this year. Coverage includes telemedicine, bilingual patient support, and features a zero-deductible structure.
“We have developed Caribbean Health Insurance specifically for our region. At Caribbean Health Holdings, we are deeply committed to supporting the people and businesses of the Turks and Caicos Islands by expanding access to high-quality and affordable healthcare solutions,” said Sergio Madinabeitia Arango, Executive Director of CHI.
“Our medical network connects members to trusted centers of medical excellence across the Caribbean and Latin America, including leading providers in the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Jamaica, and we keep expanding. This regional approach ensures that world-class care is more accessible, more efficient, and closer to home.”
On the partnership with the TCHTA, Arango shared, “Our partnership with the TCHTA represents an important step in advancing health security for one of the country’s most vital industries. Together, we are helping create stronger healthcare access for employers, employees, and their families, while supporting the long-term wellbeing of the Turks and Caicos community.”
The initiative was spearheaded by the TCHTA Membership Committee, chaired by Snjezana Andrews. Ahead of the signing, the Committee hosted a public virtual presentation, connecting employers and employees to CHI representatives to learn more about the coverage options, ask questions, and better understand the enrollment process.
“This initiative speaks directly to the purpose of the Membership Committee,” said Andrews. “Our role is to listen to our members, understand where the gaps exist, and help identify practical solutions that bring real value. We are proud to offer members an option that responds to a clear need and allows them to better support their teams.”
In 2025, the Membership Committee identified health insurance options as a priority member benefit and key goal for the Association’s current term, noting that smaller tourism providers were often challenged to access traditional group coverage on their own. The Government’s announcement regarding changes to treatment abroad access added urgency to that work and broadened its relevance across the sector.
Andrews says the partnership is not just a win for TCHTA members, but for any organization in the Turks and Caicos Islands that values its
employees and wants to strengthen the benefits available to them, adding, “In a competitive labour market, access to meaningful health coverage is key to attracting, supporting, and retaining good talent.”
Honourable Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, attended the signing ceremony and welcomed the opportunity for continued collaboration around healthcare access and coverage options for residents and workers in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“This new program provides an additional layer of security for employees in the tourism and hospitality sector by expanding access to private health insurance coverage, including the opportunity for eligible migrant workers and their families to access overseas medical treatment when needed. That is a powerful and compassionate development. It recognizes that while our local healthcare system offers quality care and continues to improve, there are times when specialized treatment abroad may be necessary.
This initiative is a significant advancement that complements the healthcare services already available locally, while strengthening the safety net for those who serve in one of our most vital economic sectors. It reflects a practical and forward-looking approach to expanding healthcare access, enhancing employee welfare, and supporting the long-term sustainability of our tourism and hospitality industry.”
As part of its commitment to the Turks and Caicos Islands, Caribbean Health Insurance will establish a local office at The Hub in Grace Bay. Led by veteran local insurance executive Craig Archibald, the office will provide the public with an in-country point of contact for information, assistance and service.
The TCHTA also confirmed that a second coverage option, offering access to care within the United States, is being finalized with local provider, CSC Insurance Brokers Ltd. Further details will be shared once that agreement is complete.
“This is bigger than a single agreement. It’s about making sure our members and their teams have real options when it comes to something as fundamental as healthcare,” said Stacy Cox, TCHTA CEO. “We encourage every local organization, member or not, to reach out and explore what this partnership can offer their teams and families.”
Interested businesses can contact the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association at info@turksandcaicoshta.com or 649.332.5787 to learn more about TCHTA membership and the CHI health insurance option.
Head to bed in a bra to reduce breast pain, nipple irritation and stretch marks
When you think about sleeping in a bra, “comfort” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind — it may not even make the Top 10. But is it bad to sleep with a bra on?
Breast surgical oncologist Margaret Thompson, MD, explains the upsides and downsides of wearing a bra while you snooze.
Should you sleep in a bra?
Several factors may affect your decision to wear a bra to bed, but Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the risk of breast cancer should not be one of them.
“There’s no evidence that wearing a bra while sleeping increases your risk for breast cancer,” she states. “It really comes down to comfort and personal preference.”
But there are also other health issues to consider. Dr. Thompson lays out the pros and cons of sleeping in a bra.
Pros: Why sleeping in a bra might be good for you
Should you wear a bra to bed? There are some benefits, especially if you’re recovering from surgery or breastfeeding.
Lessens breast pain
Having the support of a bra day and night may help relieve breast pain (mastalgia). That’s good news, because up to 70% of women in the United States deal with it at some point in their lives.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes, which often occur as part of your menstrual cycle
- Locally advanced breast cancer, including inflammatory breast cancer
- Lactation (producing milk), which may cause your breasts to ache
- Large breasts, which may strain breast ligaments and tissue
- Recent surgery related to your heart or breasts
- Underwires, especially if your bras are too tight
“When somebody reports breast pain, one of the first things we ask is whether they wear an underwire bra,” shares Dr. Thompson. “It can dig into your skin or breast tissue, leaving you sore and tender.”
A soft sleep bra can keep your breasts from shifting and causing discomfort while you snooze.
Protects lactating breasts
If you’re breastfeeding, you know all too well that your mammary glands don’t care if you’re trying to rest. Swollen or full breasts can be painful, especially as you move during sleep or change positions. Wearing a clean and supportive bra while sleeping:
- Holds nursing pads in place
- Keeps nipples dry and free from bacteria
- Reduces nipple chafing
- Supports the structure of your breasts
Make sure your sleep bra is supportive, but not too tight. Wearing a bra that’s too tight while breastfeeding can lower your milk production and possibly lead to clogged milk ducts and mastitis — inflammation of the breast tissue.
Prevents fungal infections
Everyone loves to be warm and cozy in bed. But do you know what else loves a warm environment? Fungus.
“There’s a lot of skin-on-skin contact underneath your breasts, especially if you have larger breasts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “If you’re also covered in blankets and sweating, it becomes a perfect environment for fungal or yeast infections.”
Wearing a bra to bed helps absorb moisture beneath your breasts and reduce friction. A camisole with a built-in shelf bra can also help.
Reduces nipple irritation
Friction is a common reason for nipple pain — ask any avid runner. You may not be running a marathon in your sleep, but your nipples can still get sore from rubbing against:
- Tight shirts, especially if they’re textured or have a graphic design that can be felt inside the shirt
- The fabric of your pajama top or sheets
- A sleep bra that’s too loose
Wearing a sleep bra can limit movement, easing nipple irritation.
Helps with recovery after surgery
It’s important to keep your breasts compressed after certain surgeries involving your chest. Restricting breast movement helps protect stitches and incisions. The added compression can also:
- Decrease fluid collection
- Minimize pain
- Hold gauze and drains in place
“Most cardiac and breast surgeons want you to wear a bra for some time after surgery, even while sleeping,” emphasizes Dr. Thompson. “Always follow their advice.”
Diminishes stretch marks
Stretch marks on breasts are common, especially if your breasts change size during pregnancy. Bras support your skin’s structure, which helps prevent stretch marks.
“There’s no proof that wearing a bra at any time of day will decrease breast sagginess,” Dr. Thompson clarifies. “But it may help decrease stretch marks.”
Cons: Why it’s bad to sleep with a bra on
Looking for a reason to sleep without strapping on a bra? Dr. Thompson points out a few potential disadvantages of sleeping in a bra.
Causes skin irritation and infection
A sleep bra can protect your skin from irritation and infection. But it can also cause those issues if it has an underwire or it’s:
- Dirty
- Too tight
- Too loose
Restricts circulation
“Bras that are too tight or contain underwires may cause you to wake up with some discomfort,” reiterates Dr. Thompson. “They can restrict your circulation while you sleep.”
Nobody wants to wake up to find that their bra left angry red indents in its wake. That’s why selection is key.
Tips for wearing a bra to bed
If you decide to sleep in a bra, choose one that’s comfortable and fits well — not too tight, not too loose. And be sure to replace your bras every six to 12 months, or whenever your breast size changes. Measure yourself or ask the fitter at your lingerie store or undergarments department for help finding the right size.
For the best experience with your sleep bra, Dr. Thompson recommends that you:
- Choose a gentle fabric. Avoid lace or scratchy fabrics that may be rough on your nipples. Choose a natural material like cotton or something silky and soft.
- Consider a shelf bra. Some camisoles and tank tops have a built-in shelf bra that may help you feel supported while sleeping.
- Skip the underwire. Underwire can restrict circulation and cause pain while you sleep.
- Wear a clean bra. Don’t wear a bra you’ve worn all day, and wash your sleep bras regularly — after every two or three wears.
Bottom line? If you choose to sleep in a bra, you want one that’s supportive and comfortable. If it interferes with your sleep, it’s not the right fit.
Health
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital Celebrates Successful Completion of 2026 Summer READY Programme
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – August 18, 2026 – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is pleased to announce the successful completion of its Summer READY Programme, a two-week internship initiative designed to provide high school students in Forms 3-5 with hands-on exposure to the healthcare environment and an opportunity to explore careers within the sector.
The programme, organised and hosted by the Training and Education Department, welcomed students into various clinical departments,
where they gained first-hand insight into the day-to-day operations of a healthcare facility and learned directly from healthcare professionals.
Throughout the two-week internship, students were exposed to different aspects of patient care and clinical operations while developing important workplace competencies, including communication, teamwork, professionalism, punctuality and responsibility. The experience was designed to complement classroom learning while helping students make more informed decisions about their future education and career pathways.
Vernessa Forbes, Training and Education Manager, said the Summer READY Programme reflects the hospital’s commitment to developing young people and creating meaningful opportunities for them to explore the healthcare profession.
“Summer READY is about giving our young people an opportunity to experience healthcare beyond what they may have seen or learned in the classroom. Over the two weeks, our students were able to interact with healthcare professionals, observe different clinical environments and gain a better understanding of the dedication and teamwork required to care for our patients. We were impressed by their enthusiasm, curiosity and willingness to learn, and we hope this experience has inspired them to consider the many rewarding careers available in healthcare.”
By rotating through and gaining exposure to various clinical departments, students were also able to see that healthcare extends beyond the roles most commonly associated with a hospital. The programme introduced them to the range of skills, disciplines and professionals that work together to deliver safe, compassionate and high-quality patient care.
Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, Chief Executive Officer, said the hospital has an important role to play in building the human capacity needed to support the future development and sustainability of healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“As a hospital, our responsibility extends beyond providing healthcare services today; we also have an important role in helping to develop the people who will deliver and lead healthcare tomorrow. Human capacity building is essential to the long-term sustainability of our health system, and programmes such as Summer READY allow us to introduce young people to healthcare careers early, nurture their interests and help them understand the educational and professional pathways available to them.
By opening our clinical environment to students and providing mentorship and practical exposure, we are helping to build a pipeline of
future nurses, physicians, allied health professionals and other healthcare workers. We want our young people to see that there is a place for their talents within the health sector and, importantly, that they can build rewarding careers while contributing to the health and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands. We are proud to play our part in investing in the next generation and strengthening our country’s future healthcare workforce.”
The programme concluded with the presentation of certificates of completion to the students, recognizing their successful participation and commitment throughout the two-week internship.
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital congratulates all of the students who successfully completed the Summer Ready Programme and extends its appreciation to the clinical teams, supervisors and staff members who provided mentorship, guidance and practical learning opportunities throughout the programme.
Through the Summer READY Programme and its wider education, training, internship and professional development initiatives, Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital remains committed to supporting national human capacity development. By partnering with educational institutions, government agencies and other stakeholders, and by providing mentorship and practical learning opportunities within the healthcare environment, the Hospital aims to strengthen the pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals needed to meet the evolving health needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
NASSAU, Bahamas — More Bahamians are accessing HIV and sexually transmitted infection-related healthcare through National Health Insurance, a trend the NHI Authority says should be viewed positively.
NHIA stressed in an August 6 statement that its 2025 figures measure healthcare utilisation, not newly diagnosed infections. They include beneficiaries screened, treated, monitored or receiving follow-up care, including people diagnosed previously.
“Increased utilisation of these services should be viewed as a positive development,” NHIA said.
The Authority pointed to “greater enrolment and use of NHI, improved access to screening and testing, continued treatment and monitoring of existing conditions, and increased willingness to seek medical care.”
The development comes amid a mixed three-year HIV picture. New diagnoses rose from 130 in 2023 to 156 in 2024, before declining to 142 in 2025.
NHIA said increased utilisation demonstrates that more beneficiaries are accessing needed healthcare and actively managing their health, reinforcing the importance of screening, early diagnosis and continued treatment.
