Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph has announced extended operating hours at four community health centres across Antigua and Barbuda, marking a significant expansion of primary healthcare access for residents.
Effective April 1, 2026, the Brownes Avenue Health Centre, Grays Farm Health Centre, Clare Hall Health Centre, and the Villa Polyclinic will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. The announcement was made during the official opening ceremony for the Medical Benefits Pharmacy at the Glanvilles Polyclinic earlier this week.
Minister Joseph described the initiative as a critical step in strengthening the country's primary healthcare system and reducing unnecessary pressure on the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The extended hours are designed to give residents access to timely medical care closer to home, particularly during evening hours when the hospital's emergency department has traditionally been the only option.
The four facilities will offer a wide range of services including general medical consultations, acute wound care, maternal and child health services, vaccinations, and minor emergency care. They will also manage urgent conditions such as lacerations, acute bronchial asthma exacerbations, dehydration, gastroenteritis, and uncontrolled chronic illnesses including hypertension and diabetes.
By treating these cases within community settings, the Ministry of Health expects the initiative to improve patient flow and reduce congestion at the Accident and Emergency Department of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Patients requiring more advanced care will be referred to the hospital, with ambulance transport provided where necessary.
Minister Joseph stressed that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to modernize healthcare delivery across the country. The Ministry is finalising all operational arrangements to ensure the programme is fully in place ahead of the April 1 implementation date.
