The government of Dominica has officially ratified the Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy (MCCS) 2026–2031, developed by PAHO/WHO, for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.
The health ministry said in a press release that the move marks a key step forward in regional health cooperation and underscores Dominica’s dedication to bolstering its healthcare system through principles of solidarity, fairness, and resilience.
The MCCS 2026–2031 offers a strategic, medium-term blueprint aimed at promoting health and development across several Caribbean nations, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
The release also stated that the strategy was crafted after comprehensive consultations involving member states, regional organizations, development partners, and civil society groups. It reportedly articulates a collective vision to tackle emerging health threats while prioritizing inclusive, people-centered, and equitable healthcare services.
During the signing ceremony, Dr. Kyra Paul L’Homme, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, highlighted the importance of this agreement for Dominica.
She noted, “The PAHO/WHO Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–2031 will significantly strengthen Dominica’s health system through improved primary health care, enhanced emergency preparedness, expanded human resources, digital transformation, and stronger prevention of communicable and noncommunicable diseases. In an uncertain global geopolitical environment marked by supply chain disruptions, health workforce challenges, and evolving health security risks, the Strategy reinforces resilience, regional solidarity, and equitable access to reliable, high-quality health services for all Dominicans.”
This strategic move aims to enhance Dominica’s capacity to respond effectively to both current and future health challenges, ensuring that no individual is left behind, stress health officials. They add that the timing is critical, as the Caribbean region continues to grapple with a complex health landscape characterized by high incidences of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), ongoing infectious disease threats, and the escalating effects of climate change and natural disasters.
Health systems in the region, including Dominica’s, face ongoing pressures such as shortages of healthcare workers and financial limitations, which often lead to high out-of-pocket expenses for patients. In response, governments are implementing reforms focused on strengthening primary healthcare services, advancing national health insurance schemes, integrating health information systems, and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure—efforts supported by PAHO’s Smart Hospitals Initiative.
The ministry reports that Dominica has already seen tangible benefits from the Smart Hospitals program, with upgrades completed in LaPlaine, Grand Bay, and Portsmouth. Upcoming projects include retrofitting in Mahaut and Wesley, further enhancing healthcare resilience.
Listing its core principles of equity, resilience, and sustainability as foundational to regional solidarity and cooperation, the MCCS leverages platforms like the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and CARICOM.
Looking ahead, the Government of Dominica said it anticipates ongoing collaboration with PAHO/WHO and regional partners to translate the strategic plan into concrete actions, with the aim of it leading to substantial health improvements for the people of Dominica and the broader Eastern Caribbean region.
Sounds good, but where can we read this Strategy?