The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has received Cabinet approval to recruit six new Emergency Medical Technicians as authorities move to expand the country’s emergency response capacity amid a steady rise in call volumes and growing demand for pre-hospital care.

The recruitment drive comes alongside continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, including the opening of a new pharmacy at the Glanvilles Polyclinic and planned upgrades to other health facilities across the country.

Data presented to Cabinet shows that emergency calls managed by the Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Medical Services (ABEMS) rose from 14,318 in 2022 to 16,311 in 2024, with demand remaining high into 2025.

The ABEMS Paratransit Unit also assisted over 1,100 patients last year, providing essential transportation for dialysis and physical therapy services.

Minister for Health, Wellness and the Environment Sir Molwyn Joseph said the expansion of the workforce must keep pace with the expansion of facilities.

“The expansion of our healthcare facilities must be matched by strengthening our human resources. This recruitment drive ensures that we are prepared to meet the growing needs of our population while maintaining the highest standards of emergency care,” Sir Molwyn said.

Five of the six new positions will support the establishment of a 24-hour ABEMS outpost at the Glanvilles Polyclinic, a facility that is already in the process of expanding its services.

Ambulatory care services at the polyclinic are expected to begin shortly, as the government advances its strategy of bringing more healthcare services to communities outside of the capital.

The additional personnel will also help meet growing requests for emergency coverage at national events and sporting activities, as well as increased demand for Basic Life Support training across both the public and private sectors.