The ABLP Government Is Exploring Robotic Surgery

Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government is beginning discussions aimed at introducing robotic surgery in Antigua and Barbuda.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne said he had met Chinese officials and a specialist who had performed prostate procedures locally.

He said the government wanted to explore robotic technology for procedures including prostate surgery and hysterectomies.

Browne also referred to the possibility of remote surgery and said improved telecommunications connectivity would be important to that aspect of the plan.

He indicated that negotiations were beginning, but did not announce a purchase agreement, installation date or training programme.

The Prime Minister presented robotic surgery as part of efforts to modernise local healthcare. Equipment cost figures in the transcript were unclear, and no confirmed project budget was provided.