Tag:
Ministry of Health and Wellness
Health
Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit receives upgrade
The Accident and Emergency Unit at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) in Belize City has been upgraded, marking a significant milestone in healthcare. The Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, in a powerful display of collaboration, prioritized the enhancement of the most frequently utilized area within the unit. This joint effort aims to improve the quality of care provided to the diverse patients they attend daily, underscoring the importance of unity in the pursuit of better healthcare.
Government
Government Explains Acquisition of Land for New Hospital in Belmopan
In April 2023, Cabinet approved the construction of a modern national referral tertiary care hospital that would also serve as a university hospital for the University of Belize, which would be funded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by way of a US$45m loan through the Saudi Arabia Fund for Development. This proposed hospital was approved by the House of Representatives on 19th May 2023, and signed into law in June of 2023. On 16th April 2024 Cabinet gave its approval for the relocation of the proposed Belmopan Tertiary Hospital, to a more accessible location near the George Price and Hummingbird Highways.
Health
San Pedro residents continue to benefit from mobile health clinics
Promoting healthy lifestyles in San Pedro Town has been an ongoing project for the current administration. On Friday, August 9th, Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez and partners organized another Mobile Health Clinic. Held at Central Park in the downtown area, the initiative is a collaboration between Perez’s office, the San Pedro Town Council, PAHO Belize, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and the San Pedro Lions Club. Throughout the day, island residents benefited from health services, wellness screenings, evaluations, and free consultations with medical professionals from the island and the mainland.
Health
COVID-19 Cases on the rise again in Belize
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has alerted the press to a recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the Belize District and the Cayes. These areas, particularly popular among tourists, have seen a rise in infections due to increased movement. Dr. Russell Manzanero stressed that COVID-19 is still a threat and is likely underreported due to insufficient testing. He urged residents to wear masks, especially when visiting older family members, and to strictly adhere to safety guidelines to contain the spread of the virus.
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.
Health
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.
Government
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.
Community and Society
New Central Park Food Casitas connected to running water; official inauguration of project soon
The brand new and colorful food casitas (booths) at Central Park in downtown San Pedro are almost ready to be inaugurated, tentatively in June. The booths are complete, painted with Caribbean hues, and connected to the electricity service. The concrete structures underwent another upgrade from May 16th through the 18th, with the connection to running water installed by Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL).
