Ministry of Health and Wellness (Barbados)

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is the government ministry responsible for public health and healthcare services in Barbados. Its core functions include policy development, strategic planning, and the oversight of healthcare delivery across the island.

The Ministry manages a range of services and programs designed to improve the health and well-being of the population. These services typically include primary healthcare, hospital services (through the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and other health facilities), disease prevention and control programs (addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases), environmental health, and public health education. The Ministry also plays a key role in regulating the health sector, ensuring that healthcare providers meet established standards and that services are delivered safely and effectively.

The Ministry is headed by a Minister of Health and Wellness, who is a member of the Cabinet of Barbados. The Permanent Secretary is the senior civil servant responsible for the administration and operation of the Ministry. The Ministry's organizational structure typically includes various departments and units focusing on specific areas of responsibility, such as medical services, public health, environmental health, and administration.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness collaborates with various national, regional, and international organizations, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), to improve public health outcomes and address emerging health challenges. Key priorities often include tackling chronic diseases, improving maternal and child health, and strengthening the healthcare system's resilience to public health emergencies.