Government Advances Next Phase of Mental Health Reform with PAHO/WHO Technical Mission

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs has commenced a five-day technical mission with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening mental health services in Antigua and Barbuda.

Taking place from July 27–31, the mission brings together Ministry officials, mental health professionals, community health representatives and PAHO/WHO technical experts to review progress made over the past year and identify the next steps towards a more modern, person-centred and community-based mental health system. The PAHO/WHO technical team comprises Dr. Soumitra Pathare, Dr. Claudina Cayetano and Ms Sonali Kumar, whose expertise will help guide the review of progress and inform recommendations for the next phase of mental health reform.

The mission forms part of the Ministry’s broader Mental Health Service Reorganization Plan, which seeks to improve access to quality mental healthcare while ensuring individuals receive timely support closer to where they live. The reorganization shifts the focus towards stronger community-based services by improving continuity of care, enhancing crisis response and strengthening links between hospitals, primary healthcare providers and community support systems.