Last Updated on August 15, 2022, 5:05 AM AST by Anthony Morris
The newly elected prime minister, Dr Terrance Drew, has promised that his freshly sworn-in government will assist parents who need financial aid to get crucial overseas medical care required for their sick children.
While addressing a crowd of thousands who attended the Swearing-in Ceremony of his Cabinet, hosted at the Warner Park Cricket Stadium on Saturday, August 13, 2022, Prime Minister Dr Drew said that it breaks his heart to see sick children suffer and even die because their parents cannot afford the required medical care overseas.
It is worth a mention that the Prime Minister is a medical doctor by profession; further, he has chosen to handle the responsibility of the health ministry.
“On the campaign trail, I often spoke of the hardships faced by parents who had children in dire need of advanced medical care that is unavailable here in St. Kitts and Nevis. Often these parents had to have multiple takeaway dinners and barbecues, seek help through social media campaigns and take sponsor sheets around just to raise the much-needed funds to take their sick child overseas.”
The Prime Minister stated, “My heart aches for those parents who have lost their little ones, especially those who have recently passed away.”
“As a father and a medical doctor, I cannot bear to see parents and children suffer in this manner. Therefore, your government will ensure that it provides ALL the financial assistance needed for any child who must seek special medical care overseas!” he added.
In their election manifesto, the SKNLP had laid down seven pillars of commitment to the welfare of the residents and citizens of the country, where the political party had considered healthcare to be a top priority. The political party that is now constituting a majority government in the federation had committed to bringing better healthcare facilities, including:
- A brand new JNF hospital
- On-site MRI and CT Scan Machines at the hospitals
- Implementation of a Comprehensive Universal Healthcare system
- National cancer control policy
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
