Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to transition the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) into a full National Health Insurance (NHI) program next year.
The announcement was featured prominently in the 2026 Speech from the Throne, where the Governor-General said the move will expand the number of diseases covered and allow the insurance plan to be recognized throughout CARICOM.
Additional health-sector initiatives include:
• A new mental health facility in Seaview Farm
• A new dialysis building capable of serving 100 patients daily
• An operating theatre for future kidney transplants
• Expansion of SLBMC’s transplant program, which has already completed 11 successful operations
Sir Rodney praised the Minister of Health for “outstanding leadership” during the sector’s transformation.
Expanding health sector investments is great, but I hope it also addresses staffing, equipment, and facility upgrades, not just insurance coverage.
I tired hear it’s coming it’s coming. I’ll just wait till it gets here