RTC Director

NHIB STABILISATION- Strengthening NHIB for a Healthier Future

The Ministry of Health and Human Services advises that steady and meaningful progress is being made in strengthening the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) and the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) to better serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Over the past few months, the focus has been on stabilising core systems, improving financial oversight, and laying the groundwork for long-term transformation. To date, significant improvements have been seen in system reliability and enhanced financial stability. Efforts have begun to enhance the NHIP’s cybersecurity and disaster recovery capabilities.

Operationally, we continue to identify and embed opportunities to improve care delivery, both locally and abroad, while ensuring value for money and better health outcomes. The Ministry advises that it continues to invest in improved data and reporting tools to support smarter decision-making and enhance transparency.

Most importantly, the MoHHS is committed to building a stronger, more resilient NHIB and NHIP— that are better governed, more responsive to the needs of our people, and resilient to the future. Recruitment for key leadership roles is underway, and our dedicated staff are actively contributing to this transformation.

Commenting on the process, Minister of Health and Human Services – The Honourable Kyle R. Knowles stated, “that whilst this is just the beginning and will be a gradual transformation process, we thank all stakeholders for their understanding and continued support during this period of change. My government and I remain focused on delivering practical improvements today, while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.

May God continue to bless our Beautiful by Nature Turks and Caicos Islands!”

by RTC Director

The Department of Gender Affairs Recognised at the New Testament Church of God 10th Annual Convention

The Department of Gender Affairs within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation extends its sincere gratitude to the New Testament Church of God, Providenciales, and the organisers of the 10th Annual Convention under the inspiring theme "Go with Fire."

 We are immensely honored to receive the prestigious recognition awarded to our department for our dedication and impactful work in promoting gender equality, safeguarding vulnerable populations, and supporting mental health initiatives across the islands. This acknowledgment not only highlights the tireless efforts of our team but also underscores the vital partnerships with agencies, including the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit, Behavioral Health, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and the Department of Social Development.

 In attendance was Hon. Shaun Malcolm, Minister responsible for Gender Affairs, who delivered a meaningful remark during the service. Minister Malcolm emphasized the crucial role of the church in shaping society and assisting those in need. He expressed his happiness about the partnership with the Department of Gender Affairs to better serve and protect the vulnerable communities of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

 Mrs. Carolyn Dickenson, Director of Gender Affairs, reflected on this historic milestone the first time the Department has been formally recognized for its invaluable contributions. She expressed heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging that this recognition validates the unwavering dedication of our staff and highlights the importance of our work in combating issues such as gender-based violence, substance abuse, and mental health challenges.

 Mrs. Dickenson highlighted the continued sacrifices made daily late-night calls, court reports, and urgent responses to domestic violence incidents which underscoring the department’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. While words alone cannot fully express the impact of our work, this acknowledgment fuels our resolve to continue making a meaningful difference.

 This occasion energises us to further our efforts to create a safer, more supportive environment where every individual feels protected and valued. We remain committed to collaborative action across sectors to foster positive change within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

We wish to thank the Women’s Ministry of the New Testament Church of God for facilitating this recognition. Your support inspires us to continue serving with dedication, compassion, and resolve.

by RTC Director

Department of Behavioral Health Services (DBHS) Bridge Series Addresses the Difference Between Normal Grief & Pathological Grief

On June 18th, 2025, the Department of Behavioral Health Services (DBHS) continued its impactful Bridge Series with a session titled “Differentiating Normal Grief from Pathology.” With 46 attendees, from various professional sectors, but primarily medical personnel, the session sparked a much-needed conversation around how grief is viewed, managed, and supported in clinical and workplace settings. The Session Highlighted the Need for Empathy Over Pathologizing Grief – Especially Among Medical First Responders.

Hosted by Dr. Ingraham, the Department’s Clinical Psychologist, the session featured psychiatrist Dr. Roshida Brown-Clarke, who presented on the urgent need to recognize grief as a natural human experience, not a condition to be diagnosed prematurely. Dr. Brown-Clarke guided participants through the clinical distinctions between normal grief, Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

“Grief is not a disorder. It is a necessary, human response to loss,” said Dr. Brown-Clarke, cautioning against the increasing number of grief-related psychiatric referrals made too soon after a loss. She described grief as “a roller coaster”, sometimes sharp and overwhelming, other times subdued and manageable.

She also highlighted the heightened physical and psychological impact of grief in older adults. Of note was a 21.1-fold increase in risk of heart attacks among individuals following the loss of a loved one, underscoring the importance of informed grief care.

Participants were introduced to Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), a therapeutic approach designed for individuals whose grieving process has become prolonged and disruptive. Still, Dr. Brown-Clarke firmly emphasized: “not everyone who grieves needs a diagnosis or clinical intervention.”

The session also featured key insights into grief in the workplace, especially relevant to medical personnel and high-stress professions:

“Let your humanity show,” encouraged Dr. Alicia Malcolm, the Department’s director, urging supervisors to lead with compassion when supporting grieving colleagues.
“Take things off their plate,” advised Dr. Ingraham, suggesting that coworkers temporarily share duties to reduce strain during grief recovery.
A third suggestion from Dr. Brown-Clarke included extending bereavement leave, allowing individuals more time to heal without pressure.

Dr. Brown-Clarke also offered practical tools to navigate grief, including:

Engaging in spiritual practices, support groups, and learning new skills
Planning ahead for birthdays, anniversaries, and other triggers
Prioritising self-care, rest, and meaningful social connection

Importantly, she cautioned against over-inquiring or intruding on grieving individuals under the guise of concern. “Check-ins should come from a place of care—not curiosity,” she said. Commenting on the training, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services stated: “Equipping our frontline professionals with the skills to navigate grief with clarity and compassion is essential. We commend the Department of Behavioural Health Services for delivering targeted training that supports sound clinical judgment while honouring the human experience of loss.”

The full session will soon be available for viewing on the Department’s official Facebook page. For individuals seeking grief support or mental health services, please use the booking link and referral form available directly on the DBHS Facebook page.

by RTC Director

Turks and Caicos Islands Joins Global Observance of World Blood Donor Day 2025

The Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly joined the international community in observing World Blood Donor Day on June 14, 2025. This year’s theme, “Give blood, give hope: together we save lives,” is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary impact ordinary individuals can have through the simple, selfless act of donating blood.

In the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), blood donation is more than a medical necessity—it is a community lifeline. Every day, safe blood is needed to support mothers during childbirth, treat children with severe anemia, support complex surgeries, care for accident victims, and provide ongoing treatment for patients with blood disorders and other chronic conditions. A stable and accessible blood supply can mean the difference between life and death in these critical moments.

Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, emphasized the life-saving importance of voluntary blood donation: “Blood donors are silent heroes whose generosity allows our health system to function at its best. I urge all healthy residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands to rise to the occasion and donate. Giving blood is not just an act of kindness—it is a declaration that we care deeply for one another as a people. Let us give hope, and let us give life—together.”

The campaign also aims to elevate public understanding of how vital blood and plasma donations are to the health and survival of patients. By spotlighting real stories from both donors and recipients, the initiative hopes to inspire new and returning donors to commit to giving blood regularly—not just during emergencies, but as a consistent act of service to their community.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nadia Astwood, shared her call to action: “Blood is one of the most precious resources we have in health care—and it cannot be manufactured. It comes from generous people who choose to give. In the Turks and Caicos, we must build a strong culture of voluntary blood donation, so that we are prepared not just for today’s needs, but for any challenge the future may bring.”

The 2025 observance of World Blood Donor Day also highlights the values of solidarity, compassion, and civic responsibility. It is a celebration of those who give without expecting anything in return—and an invitation to others to follow their example.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services is coordinating a series of community-focused activities across the islands, including blood drives, educational sessions, and public service announcements designed to inform and engage citizens about the importance of blood donation.

We are calling on every eligible resident of the Turks and Caicos Islands to take action. Become a blood donor. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same. Make blood donation a habit—not just a reaction. Your contribution could save a life, or many lives, right here at home.

by RTC Director

UNITED KINGDOM CARIBBEAN OVERSEAS TERRITORIES HOLD PUBLIC SERVICE SUMMIT

Under the esteemed Chairmanship of Her Excellency Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the United Kingdom Caribbean Overseas Territories Public Service Summit was successfully hosted in the Turks and Caicos Islands on June 11, 2025.

Held under the theme "Collaboration, Innovation, Impact: Driving Public Value Together," the Summit provided a dynamic platform for strategic dialogue, knowledge sharing and regional collaboration.

The Summit brought together high-level leadership from all six United Kingdom Caribbean Overseas Territories.

Attendees included:
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In her official welcome and address, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams, emphasized the significance of the Summit in uniting public service leaders under a shared vision:

"As the current Chair of the United Kingdom Caribbean Overseas Territories Heads of Public Service, it is an honour to welcome my fellow Deputy Governors and Heads of Public Service to the Beautiful By Nature Turks and Caicos Islands for this year's Public Service Summit.

This Summit, held under the theme 'Collaboration, Innovation, Impact: Driving Public Value Together,' speaks directly to the heart of what we aim to achieve and comes at a pivotal moment in our collective journey as public service leaders.

Across our territories, we are navigating an increasingly complex and interconnected world, one that demands not only resilience, but also adaptability, innovation and strong regional cooperation.

Though our responsibilities as Heads of Public Service are as diverse as our islands, we are united by a common mission: to serve our people with integrity, efficiency, and purpose.

This Summit, followed by the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service Leadership Forum, provides an invaluable opportunity to learn from one another, to share best practices and to identify impactful strategies to strengthen governance and service delivery across our region.

I encourage my colleagues to fully engage, to explore new perspectives and to foster the enduring spirit of cooperation that defines our region."

Acting Premier and Minister of Border Control and Immigration, Honourable Jamell Robinson, in his remarks, stated, "The decision to host this year's UKOT Heads of Public Service Summit in the Turks and Caicos Islands is both a powerful endorsement and a symbolic milestone, a clear affirmation of our territory's rising leadership and influence within the region. This Summit is more than a gathering of leaders, it is a bold call to action. It reaffirms our collective commitment to excellence, adaptability, and the pursuit of meaningful public value that reaches every citizen, every institution, and every future generation."

Meanwhile, Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam also offered opening remarks, stating, "It is a pleasure to welcome the Deputy Governors and Heads of Public Service from across our sister Overseas Territories to the Turks and Caicos Islands. You gather at a critical moment, as we collectively navigate complex challenges and bold public service reform to meet the evolving expectations of a modern world. For the Turks and Caicos Islands, hosting this event and the Leadership Forum, featuring 200 of our brightest talents, offers a unique opportunity to share insights collectively and connect our future leaders with the wealth of experience of the Deputy Governors and Heads of Public Service. It is through this kind of collaboration that we cultivate innovation, inspire excellence and ensure our public service remains resilient and responsive in a rapidly evolving world."

The Summit takes place during a week of activities hosted by the Office of the Deputy Governor and marks the first time the Public Service Summit has been held in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

by RTC Director