The Government of The Bahamas, through the Ministry of Health and Wellness, has joined our regional partners in advancing dialogue and cooperation to strengthen collective health systems and improve access to quality care for every Caribbean citizen.  

This is being explored through best practices in health, IT, AI and data during the 16th Annual Caribbean Conference on National Health Financing Initiatives, October 15-18, 2025 at Margaritaville Beach Resort.

The Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness officially opened the conference, which attracted some 16 countries in the region.

This conference, coordinated by the Health Economics Unit (HEU), Centre for Health Economics, The University of the West Indies, and co-hosted by the National Health Insurance Authority  (NHIA), continues a tradition that began in 2006, almost 20 years ago at the Heads of Caribbean Social Security Organizations 17th General Meeting in Belize City.

Particular attention is centred upon:

• International, regional and national best practices with negotiating, procuring, managing and optimizing benefits of health IT systems—perspectives of users and providers;
• Case studies of application of AI and data analytics in health in Caribbean countries; and
• Challenges and progress towards Universal Health Coverage in select Caribbean countries.

Dr. Darville said in the face of rising healthcare costs, evolving disease burdens, and the imperative goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage, convening under this year’s theme, “Information Systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics in Health:  Managing Costs, Optimizing Benefits for the Caribbean”, brings to the forefront that all must collectively and responsibly harness the power of technology and evidence-based data.

 “As we explore best practices in health IT, AI, and data analytics during this conference, let us also assess our progress toward Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, staying committed to partnership, innovation, and high-quality health services for all,” he urged the gathering.

He then pointed out that the diversity of participants from social security organizations, Ministries of Health and Finance, hospitals, universities, and Information and Communication Technology Firms reflects the collaborative spirit that has always defined this initiative.

Dr. Darville shared that in The Bahamas, good health is fundamental to national development and a reflection of a collective well-being. “That is why we are committed to building a resilient and inclusive health system for all,” he added.

As an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, he pointed out that The Bahamas faces unique challenges in delivering care across widespread communities.  But despite these logistical complexities, significant progress has been made.

 “We also recognize that health financing must be a national priority. This is why we launched and continue to expand our National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), envisioned as the central financing mechanism for our health system,” he said.

According to Dr. Darville, the NHIA is more than a policy initiative; it is a strategic response to the need for sustainable funding mechanisms that ensure individuals have access to quality care without facing financial hardship.

“NHIA-led reforms are expected to generate substantial savings for the government over the next five years. By reducing inefficiencies, eliminating duplication of services, and moving toward a cost-recovery approach, we can manage public resources more responsibly,” he said.

Dr. Darville said despite the individual challenges, the region has seen remarkable successes that inspire hope.

“If there is one thing to know about Caribbean people, it is that we do not stay down for long. We have a spirit for bouncing back. Storms, setbacks or curveballs, we face them head on and keep moving forward with more determination,” Dr. Darville said.

The post Health Minister discussed harnessing technology to optimize health benefits in the Caribbean, at regional conference appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.