Haiti/Health: Reform Announcements, Support for PLHIV… Minister Sinal Bertrand Details Sector Priorities

On the occasion of the 13th edition of Mardis de la Nation, this Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the Minister of Public Health, Dr. Sinal Bertrand, presented several reforms aimed at improving Haiti's health system. Between hospital renovations, recruitment campaigns, support for PLHIV, and international recognition, the ministry aims to mark a turning point.

According to the Minister, the health system is entering a new phase. Among the announcements made are the rehabilitation of Justinien Hospital in Cap-Haïtien and La Providence Hospital in Gonaïves, as well as the strengthening of the neurology department in Jérémie.

He also announced the reorganization of the ten departmental health directorates, with a focus on performance and proximity. Dr. Bertrand specified that the MSPP's 'Priority Action Framework' has been submitted to donors to better coordinate international aid.

Another major advancement is Haiti's election to the Executive Board of the World Health Organization (WHO). This is an important recognition, according to the Minister, which allows the country to actively participate in major global health decisions.

On the occasion of National Health Day, several campaigns were conducted: breast cancer screening, awareness-raising on non-communicable diseases, collective physical activities, deratization, and public hygiene initiatives.

To strengthen staffing, a national recruitment campaign is underway, aiming to integrate nurses, midwives, and pharmacists, particularly in maternity services. Finally, the Minister reassured persons living with HIV (PLHIV): USAID will maintain its support, despite the announced reduction in American funding for global health.

According to Dr. Sinal Bertrand, these actions reflect the government's commitment to building a more effective, inclusive, and better-prepared health system to meet the needs of the population.

The editorial team