Together, they are coordinating a Vascular Surgical Mission conducted by the United States Military Medical Mission – Lesser Antilles Medical Team (LAMAT). Scheduled to take place from Monday, February 26, to Friday, March 8, 2024, this medical mission aims to address vascular surgical needs within the country.

“A team of 2 vascular surgeons, 2 registered nurse anesthetists, 3 post anesthesia Care Unit Nurses, 1 surgical nurse, 2 Diabetic nurses, and 3 surgical technicians from the LAMAT mission will provide medical and surgical support. The LAMAT team is providing medical and surgical equipment, medication, and supplies to support the mission. Vascular Surgical Procedures will be carried out at the Owen King European Hospital (OKEU) during the mission,” the Ministry of Health said.

The Ministry says despite being based at OKEU, the mission will service patients from across the country.

“As a national initiative, patients from across the entire island will be receiving care. Surgical specialists from both the OKEU and the St. Jude Hospital will be participating and working alongside the visiting specialists. A total of 40 dialysis patients are estimated to receive vascular surgical care through the placement of fistulas to facilitate dialysis treatment,” the Ministry explained.

It is anticipated to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients requiring vascular surgery, underscoring the importance of collaboration and collective action in strengthening healthcare systems and addressing healthcare disparities.

The Ministry says training will also be provided to the medical professionals on-island.