Government of Saint Lucia

The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Unit is pleased to share an important development in our ongoing commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for all. As part of our initiatives, we are excited to announce the Expansion of the Men’s Health Clinic, aimed at addressing health needs for men in our community.

The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Unit is pleased to share an important development in our ongoing commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for all. As part of our initiatives, we are excited to announce the Expansion of the Men’s Health Clinic, aimed at addressing health needs for men in our community.

The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Unit is pleased to share an important development in our ongoing commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for all. As part of our initiatives, we are excited to announce the Expansion of the Men’s Health Clinic, aimed at addressing health needs for men in our community.

The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Unit is pleased to share an important development in our ongoing commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for all. As part of our initiatives, we are excited to announce the Expansion of the Men’s Health Clinic, aimed at addressing health needs for men in our community.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs informs the public about the confirmation of two cases of Oropouche viral illness in Barbados. Oropouche fever is a vector-borne disease transmitted primarily by midges (small flies) and, in some cases, by certain species of Culex mosquitoes. First identified in 1955, the virus has recently shown an increase in reported cases across South America and the Caribbean since December 2023, including areas previously unaffected. The illness commonly mimics dengue fever, with symptoms including high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, rash, nausea, and vomiting. While most individuals recover within 2–7 days, fewer than 5% may experience severe complications, such as brain inflammation or bleeding. Deaths from Oropouche fever remain rare. The Ministry continues to monitor developments and encourages public vigilance against vector-borne diseases.

In the headlines: New operating hours for the Dr. Betty Wells Polyclinic, to alleviate pressure on the two main hospitals here and; SLASPA announces tenders for Hewanorra's new control terminal tower to go out in January 2025.

For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

Healthcare providers in Saint Lucia are advancing the fight against diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness, through specialized training under the Vision 2020 Links and Networks initiative. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs, the program equips medical professionals with critical skills to detect and treat the condition early. Collaborating with experts from Frimley Park Hospital in the UK, the training combines theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, reinforcing the country’s capacity to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for those living with diabetes.  

In the headlines: Police officers receive advanced training in Intelligence Gathering and Crime Scene Investigation and; an international workshop in to strengthen accountability in government has ended here.

For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

As the festive Christmas season approaches, the demand for locally slaughtered meats and meat products traditionally sees a significant increase. In light of this, the Environmental Health Division of the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs is issuing an important reminder to butchers, meat processors, and individuals intending to slaughter or assist in the slaughtering of animals for sale.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has announced the phased opening of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, located at the Dr. Winston C. Parris Medical Complex (formerly Victoria Hospital). Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar George highlighted the extensive planning and resource mobilization required to establish the facility, including additional human resources, equipment, and supplies.

As of December 16, 2024, the first phase of the polyclinic's operations will commence, offering an expanded range of healthcare services to the public:

• National Eye Clinic Services: General eye care, diabetic retinopathy screening, and laser treatment are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• General Medical Services: This includes clinics for diabetes and hypertension, minor wound management, dressing services, urgent care, and pharmacy services. These will be provided daily, including weekends and holidays, from 8:00 AM to midnight.

The opening of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic marks a significant enhancement in healthcare delivery for the residents of Saint Lucia, improving access to essential medical services.