DA part of new regional health network; launched at CARPHA health week in Barbados

From May 5 to 9, 2025, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) orchestrated a significant week of public health activities in Barbados, culminating in an awards ceremony at its 69th annual CARPHA Health Research Conference (CHRC).

A press release from the Agency characterized the week as a series of programs aimed at advancing regional health initiatives, strengthening collaborations, and addressing pressing health issues across the Caribbean. Activities included launches of key projects, strategic meetings, capacity-building workshops, and discussions on regional health challenges, all under the overarching theme “Mental Health: The Hidden Pandemic.”

One of the notable highlights was the official launch of the Regional Monitoring and Evaluation Network, which will soon engage the Ministry of Health in Dominica. Introduced during a dedicated workshop, CARPHA stated that it focused on enhancing transparency and accountability in public health programs, particularly in surveillance and emergency preparedness. The network will also include Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines as part of the World Bank-funded Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Regional Health Project.

Dr. Lisa Indar, CARPHA Executive Director, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “The project brings together multiple agencies and sectors, bridging the gap, disintegrating silos, and propelling the bigger picture of integration and collaboration.

Collectively, these would enable the Caribbean region and countries to be better equipped and prepared for – and prevent – future disease threats, outbreaks and possible pandemics. CARPHA’s Pandemic Fund Project is changing the way the Caribbean responds to health emergencies. It is dismantling silos, promoting collaboration, and building the integrated systems we need to detect, respond to, and prevent future outbreaks”.

The launch aims to bolster regional capacity to oversee health programs effectively, fostering greater accountability and informed decision-making.

CARPHA also hosted a range of other programs, including the CARICOM Chief Medical Officers’ meeting, which focused on regional health priorities and pandemic preparedness, and the Annual In-Person Meeting of the Caribbean Vector Borne Disease Network (CariVecNet).

It reported that this event on strengthening regional health security, especially through the Pandemic Fund project, was another key activity that showcased the region’s efforts to improve surveillance, laboratory capacity, and workforce readiness. According to the organization, these programs underscore its commitment to fostering a resilient health system across the Caribbean, capable of responding to emerging threats.

The week also featured capacity-building workshops such as the Regional Health Communication Network (RHCN) Training Workshop, emphasizing coordinated risk communication and the One Health approach during public health emergencies.

Additionally, a forum on NCDs, nutrition, and mental health brought together stakeholders from 18 Member States to develop strategies for disaster preparedness and health promotion. This focus on mental health reportedly resonated deeply with attendees.

Dr. Indar, highlighting the urgent need for culturally sensitive responses to the region’s mental health crisis, stated, “Over 70% of people in our Region who need mental health care do not receive it. That is not just a service gap – it is a silence we must break.”

As the week drew to a close, the launch of the Regional Monitoring and Evaluation Network stood out as a key milestone. Its establishment marks a proactive step toward strengthening health program oversight and fostering regional collaboration.

The initiative reflects CARPHA’s broader strategy of building resilient health systems through research, partnerships, and innovative programs. Looking ahead, CARPHA plans to continue its efforts with upcoming events such as the next CHRC in Guyana and the development of a regional research repository.