Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services for Dominica
Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services is a pivotal cabinet position in the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, overseeing the nation’s healthcare policies, wellness programs, social service initiatives, and related regulatory bodies. This role is central to public health planning, disaster response coordination, social protection efforts, and the overall enhancement of national well-being. The current minister holding this title is Hon. Cassanni Laville, who assumed office in early 2023.
Role and Mandate of the Ministry
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services is mandated to deliver comprehensive healthcare services, ensure regulatory compliance, and facilitate inclusive social development. Through agencies such as the Dominica Hospitals Authority (DHA) and programs like the Yes We Care Programme, it manages everything from primary care delivery and elder support to infectious disease control. The ministry also supervises the National HIV and AIDS Response Programme (NHARP) and collaborates with international partners such as PAHO, WHO, and UNDP Dominica Project Office.
National Health Infrastructure
Dominica’s health network includes critical institutions such as the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital, Justin Fadipe Medical Centre, Triage Health, and local health centers including Newtown Health Center, Trafalgar Health Centre, and Salisbury Health Centre.
Key Facilities and Agencies
- Environmental Health Unit
- Social Welfare Division
- Dominica Infirmary and Northern District Home for the Aged
Strategic Health Programs and Social Outreach
The ministry’s focus areas include maternal and child health, chronic disease management, mental health services (through facilities like the Registe Rehab & Mental Health Center), and community wellness outreach. The National Drug Abuse Prevention Unit and Health Promotion Resource Centre drive behavioral change programs, while social assistance schemes align with mandates from the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, Youth at Risk, Gender Affairs, Seniors Security and Dominicans with Disabilities.
Community-Centered Health and Social Support
- Parents Advocating for Children with Disabilities Inclusion in Society (P.A.C.I.S)
- Dominica Cancer Society
- Dominica Dementia Foundation
- Helping Hands Inc. Dominica
Partnerships and Legislative Framework
Strong collaboration exists between the Ministry and Dominican private stakeholders like Adams Healthcare, Emerald Health Care Ltd. International agreements, such as those with the European Development Fund (EDF) and agencies including the Caribbean Development Bank, bolster health resilience through funding and technical assistance.