photo by SLBMC
On Thursday, September 11, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) reached a significant milestone by successfully performing the first vitrectomy surgery in Antigua and Barbuda. This achievement positions Antigua as the first country in the region, aside from Trinidad, where the Trinidad Eye Hospital (TEH) team has carried out this advanced surgery.
Dr. Ronnie Bhola, the VR Surgeon, was behind the scalpel during a dazzling week-long surgical extravaganza from September 8–12. Over 130 eye surgeries took center stage, featuring a lineup of vitrectomies, laser treatments, diabetic eye procedures, and pterygium surgeries.
For many patients, this is a crucial change. Previously, those with retinal detachments had to travel abroad at high costs. Now, they can receive transformative procedures locally, resulting in quicker treatment, lower expenses, and more time with family during recovery.
“This is another first for our hospital and for Antigua & Barbuda, and we are all proud of that,” said Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, SLBMC Medical Director. “Sight is so closely tied to our quality of life, our ability to work, to care for our families, and to contribute to our communities and economy. Despite the challenges we face, we continue to do more for the people we serve. This achievement was only possible through the strong support of our partners—the Ministry of Health, the Medical Benefits Scheme, and the Trinidad Eye Hospital—and we are truly grateful.”
The initiative demonstrates SLBMC’s dedication to reducing preventable blindness and enhancing care for diabetic eye disease in Antigua & Barbuda. They express gratitude to partners and healthcare professionals for their support in achieving this milestone.
Kudos to the SLBMC
This is the procedure where men can decide they dont want any more kids, am I correct?
Dominica needs that surgery. Too many males out there having fertile sperms and neglecting the growth
Hmmmmmmmmm. Good for SLBMC. Yet 25 year olds healthy having a Csection ends up dead. Well ok
Proud moment for Antigua and Barbuda. Access to advanced eye surgery without traveling abroad is a big win for patients and families.
Very happy for the patient,beautiful moment for Antigua especially after what occurred.We can trust in our doctors
Hopefully everything works after the surgery we need follow up, that these men that don’t pay child support the judge gives them a choice this or go to jail.
Hats off to Dr. Bhola and the entire SLBMC team, this is a huge step forward for healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda.
Transformative for diabetic eye patients, such initiatives make a real difference in our communities.