LETTER: Minister Molwyn Joseph’s Leadership Hindering Healthcare Progress

Dear Editor,

The healthcare system in Antigua and Barbuda is in dire need of reform, but unfortunately, its progress is being hampered by the actions—or inactions—of Minister Molwyn Joseph. His apparent lack of understanding of healthcare has led to countless issues within the system.

When health professionals attempt to make positive changes or challenge his decisions, they are often met with resistance, dismissal, or removal from their positions.

This approach has fostered a toxic environment where progress is stifled, and accountability is nonexistent.

For years, the staff at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) and other healthcare institutions have highlighted critical issues, only to see them ignored.

Rather than addressing these concerns, Minister Joseph consistently deflects responsibility, often placing blame on others, including former Medical Directors, to avoid scrutiny. Despite his public appearances and claims of being a champion for healthcare, his actions suggest otherwise.

Under Minister Joseph’s leadership, clinics lack adequate doctors, and the hospital is often under-resourced. Supplies provided through Medical Benefits are frequently unsuitable for patient needs.

The process of appointing directors and other key positions has also raised concerns, with roles often filled without proper advertisement or consideration of qualifications, seemingly based on favoritism.

The healthcare system continues to deteriorate because of this lack of vision and leadership.

Frequent turnover in hospital directors—due to dismissals or resignations—has created instability, making it nearly impossible to implement meaningful changes.

Minister Joseph’s approach to governance, marked by defensiveness and an unwillingness to accept constructive criticism, has left healthcare professionals and patients underserved.

For the healthcare system to improve, a change in leadership is imperative. The Honorable Gaston Browne must recognize that the current minister is not the right fit for this crucial role.

New leadership, with a focus on collaboration, accountability, and genuine commitment to healthcare reform, is essential to rebuilding trust and addressing the long-standing issues plaguing the sector.

Without such a change, progress will remain out of reach, and the healthcare system will continue to crumble under Molwyn Joseph. 

From a tired health care professional 

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