Hon. Sabrina Turner, Minister for Health & Wellness.

Grand Cayman, Friday, 19 April 2024–   The Ministry of Health & Wellness will be launching a one-month consultation period to help determine Cayman’s new national health strategy from May 1-31st, 2024.  The consultation, which is being undertaken with support from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), will help in the development of an overarching guiding document for the Cayman Islands that defines the 10-year strategic directions with regards to health and the healthcare system.  The public consultation is being conducted to ensure that the new strategy is informed by a range of key stakeholders.

“The reality is that Cayman is long overdue for a new national health strategy,” explains Hon. Sabrina Turner, Minister for Health & Wellness.  “A national health strategy is an agreed upon blueprint from which we- policy makers, health care providers, advocates and patients- all work together to help bring about the best health outcomes for individuals, families, communities and the nation as a whole.  This strategy helps us understand what we, collectively, see as the health priorities for the country, and to work towards common goals,” she adds.

The intensive public consultation will create numerous opportunities for public participation.  Prior to its start, representatives from the Ministry will be engaging and preparing the public for the consultation period.  From May 1-31, the Ministry will be proactively soliciting feedback from the community via talk shows, virtual and face-to-face townhalls, a designated survey, social media posts, and email, among other avenues.  Ministry officials will also be engaging key stakeholders in health, including private and public sector providers, NPOs, faith-based organisations, and other key advocates in health.

“Everyone engages with the healthcare sector in some way,” explains Chief Nursing Officer, Felicia McLean. “Whether for ourselves or our loved ones, access to healthcare is something that impacts all of us, throughout our life span.  Therefore, your voice matters to us as we work towards creating a national health strategy that truly reflects our community needs. I encourage you to take a moment to complete the survey as your input is invaluable in ensuring inclusive healthcare for everyone.  Let’s work together today to make healthcare better tomorrow.”

The National Health Strategy Consultation period will run from May 1-31st.  Email contributions are welcome on [email protected], and the consultation survey will be available on  May 1st  on www.gov.ky/health-wellness