Antigua and Barbuda is looking to deepen its links with the French Caribbean to give local patients greater access to specialised medical care while opening new training opportunities for healthcare professionals.
Health Minister Michael Joseph raised the possibility of a formal healthcare arrangement during talks with France’s new Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda and the Caribbean, Her Excellency Marie-Noëlle Duris.
Among the areas discussed were cancer care, neurology and stroke management, with particular attention given to early cancer detection and treatment as well as the use of radioisotopes in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Joseph proposed an arrangement that could allow patients with complex cancer cases to be referred to specialised facilities in the French territories, potentially providing faster access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services.
The discussions also focused on strengthening the skills of healthcare workers in Antigua and Barbuda.
Doctors, nurses and pharmacists could benefit from specialised training and professional exchanges, including opportunities to gain hands-on exposure to medical services available in the French Caribbean.
Ambassador Duris welcomed the proposals and indicated France’s interest in developing greater practical cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda in healthcare and related areas.
Joseph said closer collaboration could help strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s ability to deliver specialised healthcare while providing medical professionals with greater opportunities for training, knowledge exchange and professional development.
French people have one of the best medical care facilities
I have a heart anereurusm which French country can I go for an operation
I’m more interested in the training side of this. Bring the knowledge back home, train our doctors and nurses properly, and eventually we won’t have to send so many patients away for specialised care.
Sounds good, but the big question is cost. 😕 If somebody needs cancer treatment overseas, will the average Antiguan actually be able to afford it or get coverage?