BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Ministry of Health is on the verge of implementing a three-pronged plan aimed at reducing the number of persons with chronic non-communicable diseases.
The disclosure was made to SKNVibes by the new Minister of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, Hon. Marcella Liburd, shortly after the adjournment of the National Assembly’s opening session on March 10.
“We’re trying to get persons working in the health system to get communities more involved in primary healthcare because it’s cheaper to treat basic illnesses as opposed to chronic diseases,” she said.
“Our focus will be wellness over sickness, which means prevention will be a big part of it. My vision is to have a fit and healthy nation.”
According to Liburd, the first step would be the maintenance of gains made under her predecessor, Rupert Herbert. The ministry would then undertake a proactive approach to make families more responsible for their health.
She added that one of her major goals is the establishment of a mobile health unit that would travel around the island treating sick persons.
“Even though the health centres are accessible, a lot of people don’t go until it’s advanced; so if we can take the health centre to them that would be good. We could test people standing right there on street corners.
“We’re trying to do a health database for all the communities, so if at any given time I ask, ‘How many diabetics are in McKnight?’ I should be able to know there are 20 and who they are and then we’ll check on them. We’re trying to limit illnesses before they become chronic, because it’s costly to the person and the nation.”
Liburd explained that the final part of the plan would focus on making healthcare more cost-effective, particularly to persons already unable to meet treatment costs. A preview of the idea was given by Governor-General His Excellency Dr. Sir Cuthbert Sebastian during his traditional Throne Speech last week.
He revealed that a national health insurance scheme that would cover the cost of both local and overseas medical care was in the works.
“It would cover everyone in terms of cost, including when treatment is not available here in St. Kitts and Nevis,” Liburd noted. “Of course, a contribution will have to be made and a panel of doctors will have to determine if it’s an option.
“The plan is still in its drafting stage. Up next is to have that consultation with the public and persons in the health sector, because their input is important.”
