Residents of Saint Lucia are set to benefit from an initiative offering free specialised hand surgery to both children and adults.
The Hand Surgery Mission, a collaboration between the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs and the charity Hand Help Inc., will be hosted at the Millennium Heights Medical Complex and St Jude Hospital from April 6 to 13.
A ministry statement said that a dedicated team of volunteers will address a wide range of hand and upper extremity conditions, including soft tissue and bone injuries, congenital anomalies, and elective procedures such as carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis treatment.
In addition to providing critical care, the mission will equip local healthcare professionals with advanced training and skills to enhance long-term patient care across the island.
“This initiative is not just about delivering free surgical care,” explained Chief Medical Officer Dr Sharon Belmar-George. “It’s also about building capacity within our healthcare system. By integrating medical education and training for local clinical staff, the benefits of this mission will extend far beyond the week of surgeries, enhancing our ability to manage similar cases in the future.”
To ensure accessibility, individuals with hand or upper extremity conditions are encouraged to register at their nearest Wellness Centre, Polyclinic, or Community Hospital between February 3 and March 31. Pre-assessment clinics will also be available at the Owen King EU Hospital and St Jude Hospital on select dates in February and March. Patients are advised to bring diagnostic results and relevant medical records to their review sessions.
“This commitment to inclusivity and accessibility reflects our dedication to improving healthcare for all,” said Dr Belmar-George. “By partnering with public and private healthcare providers, we aim to ensure that every resident, regardless of financial means, can access world-class surgical care. This is an extraordinary opportunity to transform lives while strengthening our healthcare system.”
Hand Help Inc., a charitable organisation with over 25 years of global experience, comprises a team of licensed professionals, including plastic surgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, paediatricians, anaesthesiologists, hand therapists, nurses, and surgical technicians.
