The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the recruitment and placement of additional medical professionals to support the expansion of the Community Extended Hours Programme, a key initiative designed to improve access to primary healthcare services nationwide.
The decision builds on Cabinet's earlier commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery during non-traditional hours, with the goals of reducing patient waiting times and improving continuity of care. The programme extends service availability at community clinics, giving citizens greater access to medical attention beyond standard operating hours.
Phase One is scheduled to commence on April 13, 2026, with the Grays Farm Clinic and Clare Hall Clinic extending their hours of operation until 9:00 p.m. The Villa and Glanvilles polyclinics will be brought on stream as additional medical personnel become available.
To support the phased rollout, Cabinet approved the engagement of six medical doctors as Medical Officers. The approved professionals are Dr. Shellisa Galloway, Dr. Leroy Marsh, Dr. Patricia Marsh, Dr. Sakishi Challenger-Sanchez, Dr. Naila Ferris, and Dr. Jamila Francis.
The expansion is expected to benefit working individuals and families who face difficulty accessing healthcare services during regular hours. The Ministry of Health will oversee implementation of the programme and monitor its performance as additional phases are introduced.
