Astwood made the assurance during a press conference held by the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) on January 3, 2025, Speaking directly to citizens, emphasizing the PDM’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure, access, and services, assuring citizens that “all is not lost” and a better system is within reach under PDM leadership.
Voicing out the sad reality in the system he said, “For some five, six weeks, our NHIP system has been down. Yes, we are sending patients out. But can we pay for the patients? Can we pay those institutions?” he questioned.
Recalling his previous efforts to enhance the treatment abroad policy, he noted, “We were tripling the amount we paid people when they went off-island, ensuring they had enough to cover their basic needs.”
Astwood promised to expand the list of destinations for treatment and explore shared-cost models, easing the financial burden on families. “We have a plan. We are the only government that has a plan,” he declared confidently.
Elderly Care as a Cornerstone
Earlier in his remarks he highlighted the PDM’s focus on elderly care, calling it “near and dear” to the party’s mission. He proposed a forward-thinking approach, including initiatives to integrate seniors into the digital age. “Why can’t we have every elderly person who’s alone, whose family is away, access a smartphone where they can go on WhatsApp, chat, or anything, and see their loved ones anywhere in the world? This is what a caring government does,” he declared.
He also promised to provide caregivers with much-needed support, proposing facilities where elderly individuals can interact with peers, participate in physical activities, and learn new skills. “Sometimes caregivers need a break. And we will institute those facilities where persons like Ms. Forbes can get a break,” he added, referencing a citizen’s personal experience.
Addressing Systemic Health Care Challenges
The heart of Astwood’s speech focused on addressing the glaring issues within TCI’s healthcare system. “We know the service that we are getting from InterHealth Canada. I do not have to come here and bash anyone. We all live in the Turks and Caicos Islands. And we have to be truthful. Are we getting the best service possible? No, we’re not,” he asserted.
Astwood pointed out the disparity between the state-of-the-art hospital buildings and the outdated equipment inside them. Reflecting on his tenure as Minister of Health, he noted that his administration had launched an investigation into the hospital’s operations, only for it to be halted by the current government. “For four years, this current PNP administration sat idly. They did nothing,” he stated.
Bringing Healthcare to Communities
The PDM leader outlined an ambitious plan to decentralize healthcare by establishing clinics in every constituency. “Your PDM government is committed to putting those clinics back into every constituency here in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” he promised. He revealed designs for multi-functional facilities combining clinics, police stations, fire services, and emergency responders.
“This is a new way of thinking. We’re not going back to the old way,” he declared, adding that these centers would provide timely emergency services for issues such as gunshot wounds and critical care.
Building ICU Capacity
Astwood emphasized the urgent need for intensive care units (ICUs) across the islands. “The PDM administration will ensure that we have an ICU here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. And not one. We need more than one,” he affirmed. He proposed facilities in both Grand Turk and Providenciales, reducing the need for costly and time-sensitive medical evacuations.
“Imagine someone in critical care bleeding out. The main determination of life is the time that you get treatment. And we know we are sending too many of our people to these facilities at the ninth hour when it’s too late,” Astwood lamented.
Early Detection and Mobile Clinics
To combat late-stage diagnoses of diseases like cancer, Astwood pledged to prioritize early detection through accessible testing centers. “How come every time someone is detected with cancer in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we miss stage one, stage two, stage three, and we go straight to stage four?” he asked rhetorically.
He also proposed deploying mobile clinics across all islands to bring healthcare directly to residents. “If you are home, before you come to the doctors, the doctors will come to you. Those clinics will be going around, doing their checks,” he explained, envisioning a future where telemedicine would connect remote patients with specialists in real time.
A Call for Change
Astwood ended his speech with a stark critique of the current administration’s handling of healthcare. “What has happened in healthcare over the last four years? Nothing. It has gone to ruins,” he said, highlighting the dedication of health workers who have been let down by the government’s inaction.
He assured citizens that the PDM was ready to take the reins and deliver the healthcare services they deserve. “This team right here is on its way. And I’m telling you, we will take care of your health needs,” he concluded.
Looking Ahead
Astwood’s comprehensive healthcare vision underscores the PDM’s commitment to addressing systemic issues and delivering tangible results for TCI citizens. As the election approaches, his promises of state-of-the-art facilities, decentralized healthcare, and better support for citizens and health workers alike may prove to be a compelling proposition for voters.
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