Friday, November 21, 2025

Health

National Health Insurance program officially launched in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye

The National Health Insurance (NHI) program was officially launched in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, following a signing ceremony with two private clinics on the island. The program aims to provide access to primary healthcare services at a reduced cost. To sign up, residents can now visit San Carlos Medical Center and San Pedro Urgent Care and present their Social Security Card. The national program will be introduced in Caye Caulker later this year.

CARPHA Calls on Member States to Take Action to Reduce the Spread of Mosquito Borne Diseases

Mosquito borne diseases continue to pose a serious public health threat to the Caribbean Region. The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has increased reports of Dengue outbreaks with hospitalisations and deaths in some instances, and recently confirmed cases of Zika, and Chikungunya at its Medical Microbiology Laboratory.

Blood Donors Lining Up Early and Showing Beyond Closing Hour

It was a sight to behold! Island Donors Squad (IDS) is more than thrilled with the success of the World Donor Day Blood Drive Challenge on June 29th at Ambergris Hope Hospital in San Pedro. Twenty-seven units of blood were collected. Two teams faced off: “Parishioners vs Public” for a chance to win 20 seats on a sunset cruise with Seaduced by Belize.

Ambergris Caye residents can now register for the National Health Insurance Program

As announced in March of this year, Belize’s National Health Insurance (NHI) Program will start rolling out in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker. The NHI program allows registered members to obtain medical services from select healthcare providers for a fraction of the regular price or for free in some instances. While the details are finalized, residents in San Pedro can start registering at the San Carlos Medical Center in the downtown area on Pescador Drive. They must provide a valid social security number, proof of address, the number of family members living at the same residence, and a contact telephone number.

Dengue cases on the rise; Belize District reports low numbers

The rainy season brings much-needed precipitation following an extended drought, resulting in a spike in mosquitoes. These blood-thirsty insects can carry a host of diseases, one being the dangerous Dengue Fever. While cases on the Cayes and the Belize District are reportedly low, the latest report from the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) reports over 800 Dengue cases countrywide.

Get Your Head In The Game!

Whether you’re a Belizean, an expat, or a vacationer, there are a few easy options for you to play a part in strengthening blood collection in the country of Belize. Starting with blood donation! We have 5 patients requesting 23 pints. Island Donors Squad (IDS) is ramping up in a huge way for its next Blood Drive at Ambergris Hope Hospital on June 29th in San Pedro. From 8:30am - 2:00pm.

Belize Observes International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

As the world observes the 2024 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day), the National Drug Abuse Control Council, under the Ministry of Health and Wellness, underscores the critical importance of investing in prevention. This year’s theme, "The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention," calls for action rooted in science, research, and respect for human rights to achieve a Belize free of substance misuse.

San Pedro Community Blood Drive yields 18 pints

The San Pedro Community, in a united effort, held its second blood drive on Saturday, June 15th, at the Washington University of Health and Science (WUHS) facilities. This collective effort, which saw a significant turnout, resulted in 18 pints of blood collection. This blood, a lifeline for many, was then transported to the blood bank in Belize City, where it is now available to the island community and the country, potentially saving numerous lives.