The Caribbean countries, small island nations and the region in general must adapt to changing financing for global health. Increased South-South collaboration and enhancing regional cooperation are the future of resilient and sustainable Universal Health Coverage.
The Caribbean is at a pivotal crossroads in public health following the changes in international development aid flows. While this shift poses challenges, it also offers an unprecedented opportunity to reshape the region’s health future.
This opinion piece from Jenée Farrell at the Trinidad and Tobago Newsday sheds light on how countries like Antigua and Barbuda are already leading the charge, with plans to create a dedicated fund for vaccine procurement, ensuring independence from traditional international frameworks. This initiative, alongside the invaluable role of the Caribbean Public Health Agency, demonstrates the power of regional collaboration.
By embracing South-South partnerships, such as the HeDPAC model between Africa and the Caribbean, the region can innovate in primary healthcare, strengthen health systems, and build a future of resilient, self-reliant healthcare. It’s time to act decisively—enhancing regional cooperation, innovating financing solutions, and fostering South-South collaborations to secure a sustainable, healthy future for the Caribbean.
