Community

Diabetics across the island are being urged to take a more proactive role in managing their health. Medical Officer Dr. Valentine issued a strong appeal for individuals living with the condition to integrate regular physical activity into their daily routines. Speaking at a recent symposium, Dr. Valentine Chikelu emphasized that regular movement remains one of the most effective, yet underutilized, tools in preventing blood sugar from spiking. The appeal comes amid growing concern over the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Montserrat. Health authorities have consistently highlighted diabetes as a major contributor to chronic illness and hospital admissions.

Director General of the OECS Commission, Dr Didacus Jules issued a call for the region to take greater ownership of its health priorities. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr Jules highlighted the impact of increasingly severe hurricanes, rising rates of non-communicable diseases and the spread of infectious illnesses across borders. Dr Jules said declining international aid and cooperation could leave the region more vulnerable, particularly if countries continue to rely on short-term, project-based funding. He stressed that the OECS must establish its own health agenda, with international partners supporting regional priorities rather than determining them.

The 39th OECS Pharmaceutical Procurement Service (PPS) Policy Board Meeting and the 12th Council of OECS Health Ministers got underway here Monday evening. The meetings were marked by an official opening ceremony at the Montserrat Cultural Centre in Little Bay. Governor her Excellency Harriet Cross, Deputy Govenor Lindora Sweeney, Premier the Honourable Rueben T Meade, Members of Government, other Government officials as well as health leaders and policymakers from across the region were present at the opening. Addressing the opening ceremony, Minister for Health Dr the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge highlighted Montserrat’s healthcare transformation and the importance of regional partnerships in improving access to specialist care and emergency medical services. She said the island’s healthcare system has made significant progress, with improvements in diagnostic services, digital healthcare and plans for a new hospital. Honourable Buffonge said regional partnerships are critical for Montserrat, particularly in ensuring patients can access specialist care and emergency treatment that are not available on the island. She called for further progress in telemedicine, regional patient referral arrangements and more affordable transportation between islands. The Council of Health Ministers is being held on October 28th and 29th under the theme, “Learning from Resilience, Leading Through Partnership and Building Healthier Futures Together.