Acting Permanent Secretary in Ministry of Health Visits Taiwan, Strengthens Bilateral Healthcare Ties

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts [November 20, 2024] – Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr. Curtis Martin, recently concluded a productive visit to Taiwan, which showcased Taiwan’s cutting-edge healthcare facilities and underscored opportunities for collaboration with the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

During the visit, Mr. Martin engaged in detailed discussions with Dr. Chin-Su Liu, Director of the International Medical Service Center, and toured the Taipei Veterans General Hospital. While there, he observed operations and engaged in meaningful dialogue with staff in several departments, including the Accident and Emergency, Intensive Care Unit, Radiology, Pediatrics, and General Wards.

Reflecting on the visit, Mr. Martin praised Taiwan’s integration of advanced technology, professionalism, and commitment to research as hallmarks of its healthcare system.

He also highlighted upcoming opportunities for nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis, stating, “With the transformation agenda laid forth by the Prime Minister and Minister of Health, the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, combined with the significant accomplishments achieved over the past 24 months, our healthcare system is on a path to similar pride and progress.”

Mr. Martin outlined notable achievements under the Ministry’s leadership, including:

• Expansion of endoscopic surgery options.
• Commissioning of a third surgical theatre dedicated to emergency deliveries.
• Imminent installation of a new 128-slice CT scanner and the government’s own MRI
  facility.
• Increase in dialysis machines and ultrasound equipment.
• Delivery of five brand-new emergency medical vehicles in 2025.
• Expansion of Continuing Medical Education sessions and enhanced service equipment.
• The hospital now hosting the highest number of specialists in its history.

Additionally, Mr. Martin commended the successful refurbishment of the hospital entrance, supported by The Cable, and the installation of a state-of-the-art digital network for technical upgrades.

Looking ahead, the partnership with Taiwan International Healthcare Training Center (TIHTC), established in 2002, promises transformative opportunities. Through a network of partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), medical professionals from St. Kitts and Nevis will soon access specialized training in Emergency Care and Burn Management, Healthcare Management, Nursing, Cardiology, Surgery, Orthopedics, Thoracic Medicine, Dentistry, and
Ophthalmology.

“The government remains committed to elevating healthcare standards,” Mr. Martin added.

“Taiwan’s support has already borne significant fruit, and we are confident that this partnership will continue to yield mutual benefits in the years ahead.”

The Ministry of Health expressed gratitude to the government and people of Taiwan for their unwavering cooperation and support over the last 40 years, assuring citizens that these efforts will enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare for all.

END