This high-level gathering convened distinguished leaders, policymakers, and healthcare experts to delve into critical matters related to universal health coverage, particularly in the context of the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. In a momentous address representing the collective voice of the fourteen Member States belonging to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dr. Terrance Drew delivered a resounding message highlighting the paramount significance of universal health coverage and its profound influence on global well-being.

“Four years ago, we committed to moving together to build a healthier world through universal health coverage. Sadly, at the current pace of progress, up to one-third of the world’s population will remain underserved by 2030, and there has been minimal or no progress on service coverage since 2019, largely because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Drew stated.

He added “It is a fact that ill health can be both a cause and a consequence of poverty. This is the reality. We are deeply concerned that 4.4% of the global population in 2019 was pushed further into extreme poverty due to out-of-pocket health expenses. It is likely that this number substantially increased during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We must ensure that the realization of the right of everyone, especially the poor and vulnerable, to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, without financial hardship.”

The High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage plays a crucial role in influencing the direction of healthcare in the CARICOM area. The strong commitment of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew to the welfare and advancement of the people he represents, spanning Saint Kitts and Nevis and the broader CARICOM region, is further underscored through his active participation in this endeavour.