By Claudia Liburd
Nevis Reporter-SKNVibes.com
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| Chairman for the Inaugural Eastern Caribbean Conference on Health, Mr. Odelle Bussue |
(Charlestown, Nevis) --- On Friday afternoon the Inaugural Eastern Caribbean Conference on Health closed after a week of workshops and discussions geared at the improvement of the health services of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
The conference which was held under the theme Co-operating to Build Healthier Communities had several specific long term and short term goals. It sought to highlight opportunities for the improvement of the health status of the countries in the OECS region. Also to facilitate closer dialogue between health care practitioners, policy, education, and community leaders in developing and implementing strategies to improve the health of these populations.
To review health best practices in the clinical public health management of key chronic diseases HIV/AIDS, diabetes, hypertension, obesity and to heighten community awareness about the prevention and management of key health conditions. Further, to establish effective local, regional and international partnerships to strengthen the health care infrastructure and improve health care facilities.
At the closing ceremony which was held at the Four Seasons Ballroom on Friday Chairman for the Inaugural Eastern Caribbean Conference on Health, Mr. Odelle Bussue shed light on the importance of these goals.
“I want to keep these goals before us as we leave here today. These goals are both long term and short term and it is very important that we hold these very high. It has always been my vision to contribute to my society of Nevis and to the wider Caribbean region. I am passionate about helping humanity in the Caribbean region”, said Bussue. ~~Adz:Right~~
He continued, “If you have not received anything and I do believe that you have I want you to make note that it is my strong belief that this is a God given mission; a mission to serve humanity and to improve the lives of humanity. It is my opinion that a consensus of best practices will be reached and joint multi-sector collaboration at the local, regional and international levels will be initiated.”
The Chairman of the Inaugural Eastern Caribbean Conference on Health noted that their joint commitment to tackling and resolving these issues could only be achieved by co-operating to build healthier communities.
“That means that we have to approach the issue from a multi-sector level and that involves every sector of society. Every sector of society has a very important role to play in the health of the nation. The sum of the parts is greater than the whole. You are a part of this and we expect you to participate as much as possible.
“I ask you to go forward as champions and soldiers to rally your government and to keep on top of your government officials and policy makers to ensure that they keep their promises. We will do our best but we need your help in carrying out this mission. I want to thank you for coming and being a wonderful audience. As you go back to your respective countries bear in mind that you have an important part to play in contributing to the health and well being of the Caribbean nations”, said Bussue in closing.
