The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of Saint Lucians. Throughout 2024, the Ministry managed a wide range of health programs and partnerships at the local, regional, and international levels. This extensive engagement has led to measurable improvements in several key health indicators and the successful execution of critical infrastructure projects.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George highlighted the Ministry’s achievements in disease control, enhanced health service delivery, and infrastructural upgrades.

 “In 2024, we observed a notable reduction in COVID-19 cases, with incidence rates declining from 30 per 10,000 in 2023 to 3.4 per 10,000 in 2024. Additionally, new HIV cases decreased by 24% compared to the previous year, and there were no recorded deaths due to Dengue Fever despite an outbreak level incidence rate in August and October,” stated Dr. Belmar-George. 

She further emphasized the critical need for sustained public health vigilance, noting that ongoing efforts will focus on addressing new respiratory virus variants. The Ministry has also made significant strides in addressing chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which continue to account for over 75% of all deaths in Saint Lucia.

“Guided by data trends and the 2019 Behavior Risk Factor Survey, the Ministry prioritized strengthening primary healthcare services. This effort includes the introduction of free cervical and prostate cancer screenings, which saw a substantial uptake in 2024. In 2025, we plan to expand these services to include breast cancer screening and snake bite management at no cost to patients”, elaborated Dr. George.

Infrastructure development remains a key pillar of the Ministry’s strategy. In 2024, the opening of the first phase of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic at the Dr. Winston C. Parris Medical Complex marked a significant milestone. This facility now offers extended medical clinic and urgent care services, with opening hours extending up to midnight, including weekends and holidays. Dr. Belmar-George underscored the positive impact of this development. 

“By alleviating pressure on the Owen King EU Hospital and enhancing access to healthcare for residents of Castries, we have greatly improved the responsiveness of our healthcare system. Furthermore, the opening of the National Eye Clinic at the polyclinic has expanded access to critical ophthalmic services and diabetic retinopathy care.”

Looking ahead to 2025, the Ministry aims to continue its focus on quality healthcare delivery with initiatives such as the development of a national mental health framework and improvements to the National Blood Bank. Additionally, efforts to address food safety concerns will be prioritized through enhanced regulation of food establishments and the finalization of the Food Import Export mandate.

The Ministry remains committed to keeping the public informed about ongoing projects and developments. Regular updates will be provided on the progress of the SMART health facilities initiative, which will see upgrades to eight wellness centers in 2025, ensuring improved service delivery and access to healthcare across Saint Lucia.