For decades, heart disease has been one of Saint Lucia’s most persistent killers. Patients in critical condition often faced a dire reality; to access life-saving cardiac procedures, they had to fly to Martinique, Miami, or Trinidad-if they could afford to go at all. But on May 16th and 17th, a historic shift took place at Tapion Hospital. Not only were three coronary angiograms successfully performed, but, patients who required angioplasty (placement of stents) had that option made available to them for the first time on Saint Lucian soil, marking the dawn of a new era in cardiac care.
These minimally invasive procedures-collectively known as heart catheterization-allow doctors to detect and treat dangerous blockages in the coronary arteries before they trigger a heart attack. By inserting a thin catheter through the wrist or groin and using real-time X-ray imaging, cardiologists can diagnose coronary artery disease and, if necessary, perform immediate interventions such as angioplasty and stent placement.
“This is a game-changer,” said Dr. Kurlene Cenac, Consultant Cardiologist/Internist at Tapion Hospital. “We see heart disease on a daily basis in hospital. Until now, all patients had to be flown out for these procedures, urgent or otherwise. Any delays can have significant repercussions on patient outcomes. Now, we are moving steadily towards a reality where the intervention can be done here in Saint Lucia, without the need for travel overseas. While some emergent procedures may still require air travel, having the option of accessing the needed care here is truly remarkable”.
Indeed, the stakes are high in cardiology. As Consultant Cardiologist/Internist Dr. Romel Daniel explains, “There’s a saying: minutes mean myocardium. The longer you wait, the more damage is done. You need to get treatment fast.”
This medical milestone is the product of years of preparation-training, strategic investment, and a critical partnership with Dr. Julien Fabre, a renowned interventional cardiologist from Martinique. Working closely with Dr. Daniel and Dr. Cenac, Dr. Fabre helped guide Tapion’s team through the complex, high-precision process required to perform these procedures safely.
“Even with modern equipment, these interventions are complex,” said Dr. Fabre. “You need mentorship and a strong team. Tapion now has the skills, tools, and infrastructure to do this well.”
Tapion Hospital has invested significantly in building its cardiac programme-equipping a modern catheterization lab with state-of-the-art fluoroscopy imaging, emergency kits, and ICU support systems. Equally critical was the hospital-wide preparation, with specialized training for nurses, radiologists, anesthetists, and support staff.
Dr. Tracy Semei Spencer, Acting Medical Director and Anesthetist, described the rollout as a proud moment. “We are now able to do cardiac catheterization right here for patients suffering from heart attacks. It’s a major step forward in care for the people of Saint Lucia.”
But the benefits don’t stop with heart disease. The same interventional techniques can also be applied to reestablish blood flow to blocked leg arteries in patients with peripheral artery disease – reducing the risk of amputation and improving long-term mobility.
With only a handful of functioning cath labs across the English-speaking Caribbean, Tapion’s new facility is also poised to become a regional referral center, potentially serving patients from St. Kitts to Grenada-offering high-quality care at a fraction of the overseas cost.
Dr. Daniel emphasized the spirit of collaboration that made this success possible. “The Tapion executive, board, nurses, radiographers, pharmacist, support staff and physicians all played a role. And we owe a special thanks to Dr. Fabre. Through regional cooperation, especially with the Caribbean Cardiac Society, we are just getting started. The potential is enormous.”
As the first procedures conclude and recovery stories begin to emerge, one thing is clear: Saint Lucia is no longer on the sidelines of cardiovascular medicine. The country has taken a bold step forward – proving that with commitment, partnership, and vision, world-class care is possible right here at home. – By Dale Carnegie Elliott