Antigua and Barbuda Advances Next Phase of Mental Health Reform with PAHO/WHO Technical Mission

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda Advances Next Phase of Mental Health Reform with PAHO/WHO Technical Mission

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs has commenced a five-day technical mission with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening mental health services in Antigua and Barbuda.

Taking place from July 27–31, the mission brings together Ministry officials, mental health professionals, community health representatives and PAHO/WHO technical experts to review progress made over the past year and identify the next steps towards a more modern, person-centred and community-based mental health system. The PAHO/WHO technical team comprises Dr. Soumitra Pathare, Dr. Claudina Cayetano and Ms Sonali Kumar, whose expertise will help guide the review of progress and inform recommendations for the next phase of mental health reform.

The mission forms part of the Ministry’s broader Mental Health Service Reorganization Plan, which seeks to improve access to quality mental healthcare while ensuring individuals receive timely support closer to where they live. The reorganization shifts the focus towards stronger community-based services by improving continuity of care, enhancing crisis response and strengthening links between hospitals, primary healthcare providers and community support systems.

Over the past year, considerable progress has been made through the partnership between the Ministry of Health and PAHO/WHO. Achievements include stronger coordination between hospital and community mental health services, expanded mental health consultations at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, improved referral and discharge planning processes, enhanced documentation systems, and continued work to modernise the country’s mental health legislation. Together, these initiatives have established a strong foundation for the next phase of reform.

Throughout the week, participants will engage in strategic meetings, technical workshops and site visits to review existing services, identify practical solutions to current challenges, and develop clear actions to further strengthen mental healthcare. Discussions will also explore workforce development, community partnerships, crisis intervention, social inclusion and greater collaboration among the health, education and social sectors to ensure more coordinated care for individuals living with mental health conditions.

Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Hon. Michael Joseph, said the technical mission reflects the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening mental health services and advancing long-term reform.

“Mental health is an essential part of overall health and well-being, and strengthening mental health services remains a priority for this Government. We recognise that building a modern mental health system requires more than improving services. It requires a coordinated, people-centred approach and a fundamental shift in how we understand, respond to and support people living with mental health conditions. Through our continued partnership with PAHO/WHO, we are advancing this vision while working to ensure that every individual has access to compassionate, high-quality care. The discussions and technical collaboration taking place this week will help shape the next phase of that transformation as we continue building a stronger, more integrated and responsive mental health system for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.”

The Ministry of Health expressed its appreciation to PAHO/WHO for its continued technical support and reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with healthcare professionals, community partners and other stakeholders to implement the recommendations arising from the mission. The recommendations arising from this week’s mission will help shape the next phase of mental health reform and strengthen the delivery of mental health services across Antigua and Barbuda.

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