Saint Lucia’s health sector is advancing decisively to meet the needs of its citizens through strategic developmental phases aimed at enhancing medical services, including robust training programmes and increased human resources.
Health Minister Moses Jn Baptiste recently provided an update on the status of healthcare and medical services on the island. The Minister highlighted significant developments, including the opening of the Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, an increase in the number of physicians within the health sector, and ongoing repairs at the Vieux Fort Wellness Centre.
On Monday, the island welcomed the launch of the state-of-the-art Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, located at the Dr. Winston C. Parris Medical Complex, formerly known as Victoria Hospital.
“Services have commenced at the Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, which now offers a range of services including: The National Eye Clinic, Urgent Care, Medical Clinics, Diabetic and Hypertensive Clinics, Pharmacy Services, Minor Wound Management, and Home Visitation,” asserted Minister Jn Baptiste.
The facility operates from Monday to Sunday, including holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to midnight, with the National Eye Clinic operating from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Minister recognised the invaluable contributions of all medical professionals, nurses, doctors, health aides, and the dedicated support staff who worked diligently to ensure the successful launch of services at the Betty Wells Urban Clinic.
In addition, plans are underway for the refurbishment of the Accident and Emergency Building, which was gutted by fire. This structure will be transformed into “another Urgent Care and Accident & Emergency Unit for Saint Lucia,” he confirmed.
Furthermore, Jn Baptiste reported that the Vieux Fort Wellness Centre is currently undergoing repairs, which include the removal of air ventilation systems, installation of split and cassette units, new electrical and ceiling work, roof repairs, thorough cleaning, and air quality treatment.
He assured that the Vieux Fort Wellness Centre will open very soon.
Minister Jn Baptiste also announced the hiring of eight new District Medical Officers/professional doctors specifically for the Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic. Additionally, two Senior Medical Officers have joined the Ministry of Health to enhance services in Urgent Care and oversee the District Medical Officers.
“We are committed to ensuring that Saint Lucians receive high-quality medical care, and the addition of these medical professionals is a crucial step in that direction,” Jn Baptiste affirmed. This initiative is part of expanding the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.
Significantly, new services have been integrated into the Health Clinic under the UHC programme, including PSA tests and other neurology services at no cost for men in Saint Lucia. The Minister emphasized the government’s steadfast commitment “to continue allocating resources toward health services, thereby improving not only infrastructure but also human resources for health.”
He commended the recent graduates of the Sir Arthur Community College (SALCC), particularly the Student Nurses. “This is the first cohort of Nursing Students to complete their studies at the Bachelor (Degree) level, and we are eager to see their contributions to the healthcare system in Saint Lucia,” he stated resolutely.
Jn Baptiste added, “We will continue to support our nurses and are actively developing a Retention Plan to address their needs, alongside other training programmes.”
Regarding ongoing work at the St Jude Hospital, he stated, “Progress is moving smoothly, and we are witnessing substantial developments at the rehabilitated site with numerous rooms nearing completion.”
He continued, “We remain committed to assisting hospitals with their immediate and pressing needs, particularly at the St Jude Hospital, where we are focused on bolstering human resources in the Emergency Department.”
The Minister confirmed that rehabilitation works and upgrades are slated for the Gros Islet Polyclinic in the upcoming year.