Posted: Wednesday, July 30, 2025. 10:00 am CST.
CONTRIBUTED:
Belize’s health sector is undergoing a transformative shift, thanks to a major partnership with the European Union (EU) through the Health Sector Support Programme (HSSP) implemented by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) since 2018. This initiative, among others, focuses on providing vital upgrades to the country’s health facilities, ensuring they are safer and more resilient. With an emphasis on disaster resilience and energy efficiency, the programme not only strengthens the physical infrastructure but also improves the quality of life for Belizeans both now and in the future.
The HSSP focuses on retrofitting six health facilities across the country, including three regional hospitals, two community hospitals, and one national laboratory. These upgrades range from major structural and architectural works targeting smart improvements that boost sustainability. Facilities also underwent electrical upgrades, roofing repairs, wall and window restoration, and rehabilitation of water storage and sewer treatment systems, including the leachfield, specifically at the Punta Gorda Community Hospital.
Aesthetic enhancements, along with greening initiatives such as the installation of LED lighting, timed facets, low-flow toilets, solar water heaters, and solar panels, contributed to long-term efficiency and environmental impact. By enhancing safety, improving operational efficiency, and creating a better working environment for healthcare workers, the EU is playing a pivotal role in transforming Belize’s health sector into a more climate-resilient and energy-efficient system.
At the heart of the retrofitting upgrades is the goal of creating facilities that are not just functional but sustainable and able to withstand the challenges posed by natural disasters such as hurricanes.
At the Punta Gorda Community Hospital, which serves one of the most vulnerable rural areas of Belize, the retrofitting has been life-changing for staff and patients. Dr. Jorge Sajia, Deputy Regional Health Manager South, shares, “Power shortages were a regular problem here. We used to rely on a small generator that could only provide electricity for one person. Now we have a reliable energy backup system that makes our planning much simpler. In addition, we are now able to withstand a Category three hurricane.” The energy impact included a 100W generator and a solar panel system, significantly improving the hospital’s energy resilience. As part of the upgrades, the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Section was completely redesigned and retrofitted to enhance its capacity to deliver timely and effective care during emergencies.
The Corozal Community Hospital has faced similar challenges. Dr. Angela Gilharry, Medical Chief of Staff, recalls, “The ceilings in almost every area had some sort of leak, and we were always a bit panicky, hoping nothing hits Corozal because we knew that even if a Category One hits, we would have to move.”
The significant retrofitting works undertaken are not just about protecting the building from potential hurricanes but also ensuring continuity of care during emergencies. The upgrades, hence, also have a direct impact on patient care.
In Punta Gorda, Nursing Supervisor Darla Stain highlights how the new infrastructure has made emergency care more efficient. “During an emergency, before, we had to close all the doors to provide privacy and care. We even had to treat some patients in the corridor because the number was too overwhelming. We can now accommodate seven patients without any issue.”
At Corozal, the improvements in space and comfort are equally significant. Nurse Amberly Heredia shares, “Before the upgrade, we would have to have patients seated in a wheelchair while they receive medical attention. Now, patients can be more relaxed and at ease on a bed.”
These upgrades go beyond just the infrastructure. They directly enhance the comfort and well-being of patients, making it easier for the health staff to deliver quality care. For Corozal Community Hospital, the waiting area has been enclosed and air-conditioned, which provides a more comfortable environment for patients. In the emergency area, space was expanded to increase capacity from just four beds to six, which allowed for better patient observation and improved response during critical care.
The Central Medical Laboratory, a crucial laboratory for diagnostics in Belize, also benefited from substantial EU support for architectural, structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing works that were completed in May.
The EU’s investment in the infrastructure of Belize’s health facilities is about building a healthier, more resilient future for the country. By making healthcare facilities smart, more sustainable, and more disaster-resilient, the EU plays a vital role in strengthening Belize’s health system and in ensuring that Belizeans receive the care they need.
While the retrofitting of the hospitals is most visible, the EU’s support goes beyond infrastructure. The HSSP also strengthens the organization and management of health services targeting non-communicable diseases, as well as improving the health information system. This included supporting the National Nutrition Policy, the Belize National Suicide Prevention Plan, and the Health Sector Strategic Plan 2025-2035. The EU has also contributed to initiatives like the Hearts Integration and CDEP initiative, which
addressed the limitations of the current health information exchange. The EU’s support was also crucial in the country’s COVID-109 emergency response by helping to enhance the resilience of the healthcare system during the pandemic. Additionally, the capacity building for healthcare workers and community health workers ensured better health services.
This multifaceted approach ensures that the health facilities are not only equipped to handle current health challenges but are also prepared for future needs. The EU has been instrumental in creating a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable healthcare system for achieving a better quality of life, for all Belizeans, living now and in the future.
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The post The European Union Reinforces Belize’s Health System: A Game-Changer for the Health Sector appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Wednesday, July 30, 2025. 10:00 am CST. CONTRIBUTED: Belize’s health sector is undergoing a transformative shift, thanks to a major partnership with the European Union
The post The European Union Reinforces Belize’s Health System: A Game-Changer for the Health Sector appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
