Newly appointed Health Minister Michael Joseph on Thursday made his first official visit to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where discussions focused on the challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare system and the need for continued improvements in patient care.

Joseph, who was appointed to the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs earlier this week, began the day with a briefing from Permanent Secretary Stacey Gregg-Paige on key priorities within the health sector.

He later toured the country’s main public hospital alongside hospital director Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis and members of the institution’s leadership team.

The visit provided the minister with a firsthand look at the operations of the medical centre, including ongoing concerns related to staffing, infrastructure, administration and healthcare delivery.

Particular attention was given to the Emergency Room Department and triage area, where officials outlined the procedures currently in place to manage patient intake and emergency response services.

Joseph was also introduced to the hospital’s electronic patient management system, which assists healthcare workers with monitoring patient arrivals, treatment progress, ward assignments and discharge coordination.

During the tour, the minister stopped to speak with nurses, doctors and administrative staff, thanking them for their commitment to serving the public despite the pressures often faced within the healthcare system.

Officials said the discussions also explored strategies aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening the quality of care provided at the institution.

Joseph said collaboration and innovation would be essential as the Government works to improve healthcare services across Antigua and Barbuda, while reaffirming support for the continued development of the nation’s primary medical facility.