The Antigua and Barbuda government is considering the introduction of a nurse practitioner program to expand healthcare services and create new opportunities for local nurses amid increasing global demand.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne said the proposal was inspired by discussions with nurses about advancing their careers.
“Some of the nurses were asking if we could look at that program and introduce it here as well,” Browne said.
He added, “I will make a note and take that up with Professor Robinson.”
The nurse practitioner role, a step above registered nurses but not fully equivalent to doctors, would allow practitioners to diagnose and treat patients, including prescribing medications.
Browne emphasized the potential for such a program to enhance healthcare delivery in Antigua and Barbuda.
Highlighting the migration of nurses to North America and Europe, the Prime Minister called for the expansion of local training programs. “Let us train as many nurses as possible,” Browne stated.
He suggested a rotation system where nurses work locally for a few years before pursuing opportunities abroad, potentially bringing their skills back to Antigua and Barbuda in leadership roles.
The Prime Minister also noted the availability of unutilized scholarships for medical studies in countries like Cuba, China, Europe, and the Middle East.
“We have scholarships that are not even taken up,” he remarked, encouraging young Antiguans to pursue these opportunities.
Browne reiterated the importance of training healthcare professionals to meet local needs while leveraging global demand. “We should train as many as possible and create an export market with nurses, just like the Philippines has done,” he suggested.
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Why is it that ANR bloggers never comment on anything positive. Where are the constructive comments undet this post?
That still not gonna keep the nurses
I’m amazed at The Professional appearance of Antiguan Nurses presently !!!! Who is In charge of Nurses and Their Disciples !!!! Is that person aware of the Uniform protocols ? When I worked at Holberton there were such
Will that Nurse with those outlandish hair be allowed to nurse Patients ? I presume She will not be doing bedside nursing !!!! With another Pandemic in circulation her hair is in question of contamination
Wake up Nurse In Charge and fix this alarming issue
Please present Yourself as Role model in your Dress Code when presenting yourself as A NURSE