Cabinet Approves Five-Year National Health Strategy

The 2026–2031 plan sets out 11 strategic directions to guide healthcare development and delivery.

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An AI-generated illustration highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s five-year national health strategy, featuring the strategic plan document, a healthcare professional attending to a young patient, the national flag, and medical icons representing the 11 strategic directions for healthcare development.
Antigua and Barbuda’s National Strategic Plan for Health 2026–2031 outlines 11 strategic directions aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and improving national health outcomes. · AI Generated

Cabinet has approved the draft National Strategic Plan for Health 2026–2031, establishing a five-year framework for developing and delivering healthcare services in Antigua and Barbuda.

The plan sets out 11 strategic directions intended to strengthen the health system and support services for residents and visitors.

According to the October 14 Cabinet report, it was developed following an Essential Public Health Functions Assessment conducted by the Pan American Health Organization in 2023.

That assessment involved consultations with multiple stakeholders and helped identify priorities for strengthening public health.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs will use the approved plan to guide health sector development and implementation during the period.

Cabinet described the strategy as a means of supporting coordinated planning, institutional strengthening and improved national health outcomes.

The stated goals include better access to quality care and a stronger, more equitable and responsive health system.

However, the Cabinet summary did not list the 11 strategic directions individually or provide an implementation budget, annual milestones or detailed performance targets.

The approval establishes the policy framework within which the ministry will advance the next phase of healthcare planning.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/10/16/cabinet-approves-five-year-national-health-strategy. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

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