Access to medicine, technologies key

 

The Government of Barbados needs to ensure that they provide access to the best in medicines and medical technologies to all its citizens as this is the key to fighting Diabetes.

This is according to the PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Dr. Godfrey Xuereb who delivered remarks at the World Health Day 2016 launch recently at PAHO headquarters.

 

He stated that in so doing, they would be fulfilling their responsibilities under both the Universal Health Access and Universal Health Coverage.

 

The Government also needs to ensure that they continue to provide other mechanisms, such as early treatment plans and educating persons on important areas, such as a healthy diet and various ways that they make time in their busy schedules to engage in physical activity.

 

“People with Diabetes can live long and healthy lives if their disease is detected and well managed. The WHO’s Global Report on Diabetes … shows that Governments around the world have began to act, but much more concerted action is needed. Barbados needs to continue to ensure that access to essential medicines and technologies for Diabetes remain available to all. This is one of the pillars for Universal Health Access and Universal Health Coverage. Barbados needs to continue leading the way in screening for complications and early treatment when they are found, as well as patient education to promote healthy diet, physical activity and self-care,” he asserted. Dr. Xuereb emphasised the importance of these measures being taken as complications from Diabetes can create an even greater financial strain on resources.

 

“Poorly controlled Diabetes does not only kill at an early age, it is one of the main causes of disability and hospitalisation that we currently face. Complications including heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, blindness and foot ulcers that can lead to amputations all lead to a deterioration of the quality of life, leading to citizens not only being less productive, but requiring society to support them through a complicated maze of clinical problems,” it was further explained.

 

He added that this access must be accompanied by fiscal policies and legislation. “We need a combination of fiscal policies, legislation, changes to the environment and raising environment of the health risks, but together, I am convinced that we can halt the rise in Diabetes and provide care to improve the quality of life for those living with the disease. Everyone has a role to play and together we will beat Diabetes.”