Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global and local health concern. In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, Medical Microbiologists Dr Camille Blake and Dr Glendee Reynolds, along with Clinical Pharmacist Ramone Gayle, discuss how antibiotics work, why misuse is dangerous, and the steps we can all take to prevent resistance in the Cayman Islands.
Our guests explain the risks of self-medicating, importing antibiotics, or stopping treatment early, and highlight the role of pharmacists and healthcare professionals in promoting responsible use. They also share practical advice for parents, patients, and the wider community on best practices, how to handle leftover medication safely, and alternatives to antibiotics for mild illnesses.
Tune in to learn how “antibiotic stewardship” protects your health, keeps our community safe, and combats the rise of “superbugs” locally.
#HealthcareTodayWithHSA #HSACaymanIslands#AntimicrobialResistance #AntibioticStewardship
Suicide Prevention Day | Healthcare Today with HSA
As Suicide Prevention Week (7–13 September) unfolds, we take a closer look at the importance of suicide awareness and support here in the Cayman Islands.
On this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, Community Psychiatric Nurse Dymphna Carten and Dr Liezel Anguelova from Faith Hospital share insights into local suicide trends, risk factors, and the warning signs to watch for.
They also discuss the mental health services available through HSA — including Alex’s Place for adolescents ages 10-20 years old, and the Behavioural Health Outpatient Clinic — and the critical role families, schools, workplaces, and communities play in prevention.
Tune in for practical guidance on how to support someone in crisis, create safer environments, and foster hope and connection in our community. Every life matters, and early intervention can save lives.
#HealthcareTodayWithHSA #HSACaymanIslands#SuicidePreventionWeek #WorldSuicidePreventionDay
HSA Dialysis Services Opens at West Bay | Healthcare Today with HSA
In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, we sit down with Dr Ikechi Okpechi, Consultant Nephrologist, to explore the life-saving role of dialysis in treating kidney disease.
Dr Okpechi explains when dialysis becomes necessary, the leading causes of kidney disease in Cayman and worldwide, and the range of treatments offered by HSA, including haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and acute therapies for critically ill patients.
We also highlight the new West Bay Dialysis Unit, designed to bring care closer to residents of the western district, and discuss how HSA supports patients in George Town, the Sister Islands, and even visitors to Cayman.
With insights on patient outcomes, holistic support, and future plans for expanding services, this episode offers an in-depth look at how dialysis care is delivered and improved across the islands.
Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply want to understand more about kidney health, this episode provides practical information and inspiration on how HSA is making high-quality dialysis care more accessible than ever.
#DialysisCare #HSACaymanIslands #NephrologyServices #HealthcareTodayWithHSA
In this special Healthcare Today with HSA episode marking World Breastfeeding Week (August 27), we are joined by HSA Midwives Isobel James and Rachel Peterkin-Smith, along with Community Dietitian Tamara Riley.
Together, they highlight the 2025 theme: “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems” and explore the vital role breastfeeding plays in the health and well-being of both mothers and babies.
Our guests discuss the unique nutritional and immune benefits of breast milk, how breastfeeding supports mothers physically and emotionally, and the positive impact it has on sustainable healthcare.
They also share practical advice for overcoming common challenges, tips for working mothers, and details on local services and support available through HSA and community partners.
Whether you’re a new parent, expecting a child, or supporting a loved one, this episode offers essential insights on how we can all help build a culture of support for breastfeeding families.
#WorldBreastfeedingWeek2025 #HSAMaternity #HSACaymanIslands #HealthcareTodayWithHSA
In this episode of Healthcare Today, we welcome Dr. Pradip Thakker, HSA Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Cardiologist, who brings dual expertise in paediatrics and paediatric cardiology to the Health Services Authority (HSA).
We discuss:
❤️ Why having a paediatric cardiologist on-island is vital in early diagnosis and treatment
👶 Common signs of heart issues in children and when to seek help
🏥 How HSA’s Paediatric unit works together to support children and families
🌍 Reducing the need for overseas referrals and creating better continuity of care
🔍 The importance of early screening and plans for community outreach
You’ll also hear from Dr. Karen Stewart, Nurse Layla, and Nurse Shawnette on how this service expansion strengthens Cayman’s paediatric care from the hospital to the home.
To book an appointment or learn more about paediatric cardiology at HSA, visit www.hsa.ky or call 949-8600.
When a hurricane is heading for the Cayman Islands, the Health Services Authority (HSA) plays a critical role, but not as a public shelter.
In this episode of Healthcare Today, we sit down with HSA’s emergency preparedness team to break down exactly how to prepare for storms if you or a loved one has medical needs.
🔗 Visit www.hsa.ky/hsa-prepared or call 949-8600 for more hurricane prep resources.
#CaymanPrepared #HurricaneSeason #HSACaymanIslands #HSAPrepared #HealthcareTodayWithHSA
The Health Services Authority has launched a full-time Pulmonology service for lung health and respiratory care in the Cayman Islands.
In this episode of Healthcare Today, we speak with Dr. Deepak Muthreja, HSA’s new full-time consultant pulmonologist, and Dr Karen Stewart, Director of Nursing, about how local patients can now access faster diagnoses, advanced procedures, and consistent follow-up care without leaving Cayman.
Learn about:🩺 Common conditions like asthma, COPD, sleep apnea & lung cancer
🔍 Life-saving early detection and screenings
⚕️ Advanced procedures including bronchoscopy, pulmonary rehab and function testing, and more
Whether you’re dealing with chronic breathing issues or simply want to protect your lung health, this episode offers expert advice, practical tips, and an inside scoop at the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority
📞 Visit www.hsa.ky or call 949-8600 to learn more or book an appointment.
This EMS Week, we’re taking you inside the fast-paced world of Emergency Medical Services in the Cayman Islands, as we sit down with David Jayse Wilson, Deputy EMS Manager, and Michael Blackburn, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at the HSA.
From 911 calls to critical care in motion, this episode unpacks what happens when every second counts.
We sit down with members of HSA’s EMS team to explore:
✅ What prehospital care looks like, and why it’s lifesaving
✅ How EMS professionals stay calm in chaos and make split-second decisions
✅ The tech tools transforming patient care in the field
✅ Why your house number could save your life during an emergency
✅ What you need to know before hurricane season hits
✅ How you can prepare, support, and even join Cayman’s EMS
Whether you're a healthcare worker, caregiver, or just want to be better prepared in an emergency, this one’s for you.
🚑 Learn more about EMS careers and services at www.hsa.ky.
#EMSWeek #CaymanEMS #HealthcareHeroes #HSACayman #EmergencyPreparedness #EverySecondCounts
What does it take to save a life? Sometimes, just an hour of your time and one donation of blood.
In this special World Blood Donor Day episode, we’re joined by Kristine Miranda and Michael Parchment, Medical Technologists at HSA’s Blood Bank, to talk about the true impact of giving blood, how innovations like the new Mobile Blood Bank and local platelet donations are transforming care.
We cover:
🩸 Who can donate and what to expect
🚑 Why every drop counts, especially in emergencies and cancer care
🧬 The impact of policy changes
🏥 How one pint of blood can save up to three lives
Whether you’ve donated before or are thinking about it for the first time, this episode is your invitation to join something life-changing and lifesaving.
Book an appointment, visit www.bloodbank.ky
#WorldBloodDonorDay #GiveBloodGiveHope #CaymanBloodBank #HSAHealthcareToday
When you think about healthcare, you might only think about doctors, nurses, and appointments.
But behind every visit is a team focused on how you feel while you’re here, and that’s where the Patient Experience Team comes in.
In this episode, we sit down with members of the HSA Patient Experience Team, Nia Prendergast, Vanessa Ebanks, and Kashieka Bowen to talk about the work they do every day to make healthcare more human.
From helping patients feel less overwhelmed to supporting families during tough moments, this team is here to listen, guide, and advocate.
We talk about:
🧭 What Patient Experience means
💬 How they help with everything from navigating forms to managing complaints with empathy
🧑🤝🧑 Stories of quiet impact during difficult moments
🏥 How they support vulnerable groups, from seniors to non-English speakers
This one’s all about the heart of healthcare and the people making sure no one feels alone in it.
#HealthcareToday #HSAExperience #CaymanCare #PatientFirst #TeamHSA
Finding Your Voice: How Speech Therapy Transforms Lives in Cayman | HealthcareToday with HSA
In celebration of Better Hearing and Speech Month 2025, we’re shining a light on the vital role of communication in our health, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Join us for a heartfelt and informative conversation with Faith Gaeley, Team Lead of the HSA Speech Therapy Team, as we explore this year’s theme: “Connecting Through Communication.”
In this episode, we dive into:
✅ What speech and language therapy is, and who it helps
✅ Early warning signs in children and the power of early intervention
✅ How speech therapists support stroke survivors, people with autism, and those with swallowing disorders
✅ Breakthrough therapies including AAC, feeding support, and neurological rehab groups
Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare provider, or someone seeking support, this episode offers expert insight and local resources to help you or your loved ones communicate with confidence.
🗣️ Because everyone deserves to be heard.
🔗 Learn more or make an appointment at www.hsa.ky or call (345) 244-7675 / 244-2730.
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Linden Swan, Consultant Paediatrician at the Health Services Authority (HSA), to unpack some of the most pressing childhood health concerns affecting families in the Cayman Islands today.
From the rise in childhood obesity and asthma to the increasing awareness of behavioural conditions like ADHD and autism, we explore what’s behind these trends and what parents can do to support their children’s health and wellbeing.
You’ll learn:
✅ Practical strategies for managing childhood weight and nutrition
✅ How to spot signs of asthma, allergies, or behavioural differences early
✅ Why early intervention is crucial, and how to access support in Cayman
✅ How Cayman’s climate and environment impact children’s respiratory health
Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode offers expert insight, local relevance, and real-world advice to help you navigate your child’s health journey with confidence.
🔗 For more information, visit www.hsa.ky or call 949-8600.
2025 Autism & Neurodevelopment Symposium Cayman | Healthcare Today with HSA
In this special episode of Healthcare Today with HSA for National Autism Month, we highlight autism and neurodiversity in the Cayman Islands, breaking down myths, elevating voices, and exploring the road from awareness to full inclusion.
Join us as we speak with experts and advocates leading the charge, including:
🎙️ Ally Olarou, Director, Autism Cayman
🎙️ Denise Renae-Williams, Principal, Lighthouse School
🎙️ Dr. Stenette Davis, Consultant Psychiatrist, HSA
Together, we discuss:
✔️ What autism really is and the myths we need to leave behind
✔️ How inclusive education, employment, and healthcare make a difference
✔️ Highlights from the 2025 Autism & Neurodevelopment Symposium
✔️ How Autism Cayman is creating lasting change across the islands
Whether you’re a parent, educator, healthcare provider, or an ally ,this episode offers valuable insights into how we can all play a role in building a more supportive, inclusive Cayman.
Learn more, visit autism.ky/symposium2025Explore HSA's Medical Services, visit hsa.ky
Measles Awareness & Primary Healthcare in Cayman | Healthcare Today with HSA
In this urgent and informative episode, we spotlight the Public Health Department’s inaugural Primary Healthcare Awareness Day—and tackle the growing global concern over measles outbreaks, including confirmed cases in the United States.
With vaccine hesitancy on the rise and preventable diseases making a comeback, now is the time to take action.
Guests:🎙️ Therese Burrell-Prehay – Health Promotion Officer, Public Health Department🎙️ Joanna Rose-Wright – Senior Nursing Officer, Primary Health Care Services🎙️ Angela Graham – Public Health NurseWe explore:
✔️ Why measles is more than just a rash, and how to recognize early symptoms✔️ How the MMR vaccine protects both individuals and the community✔️ The importance of checking your vaccination status—even as an adult
✔️ How to talk about vaccines with compassion and evidence-based facts
✔️ What sets Primary Healthcare Awareness Day apart from a typical health fair
✔️ Free screenings, education, and ongoing support available for residents
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or community member, this episode empowers you with the facts to protect your health and your family's future.
🔗 Learn more at www.hsa.ky or call the Public Health Department at 949-8600.
Stay protected. Stay informed. Get involved.
Expansion of Diabetes Education in Cayman's Health District Clinics | Healthcare Today with HSA
In this episode, we’re joined by Winsome Jefferson, HSA Clinical Pharmacist and Diabetes Educator, to talk about the exciting expansion of health education services across Cayman’s district health centres.
With a particular focus on diabetes education, this initiative is helping empower individuals, families, and communities to take charge of their health.
Tune in to learn:
✅ What the new education services mean for the community
✅ Why diabetes education is a vital part of preventive care
✅ Common myths about diabetes—and the facts that counter them
✅ How to access these free services in your local clinic
✅ The lifestyle changes that make a real difference in preventing and managing diabetes
Whether you’re living with diabetes, caring for someone who is, or just want to stay informed, this episode offers practical, local insight that could change lives.
🔗 Learn more by visiting www.hsa.ky or contacting your nearest district health centre.
Know you numbers and lower your risk of diabetes, book a consultation, visit https://www.hsa.ky/medical-services/diabetes-clinic
In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, we spotlight the 13th annual Women’s Health Conference held on March 7, 2025, at Hotel Indigo.
With the theme “Women’s Reproductive Healthcare: A Collaborative Approach,” Dr Karina Palmer-Folder, Registrar at the HSA Women's Health, breaks down this year’s event.
The conference brings together leading experts to discuss groundbreaking advancements in gynecologic care, maternal health, reproductive mental health, and more.
As we recognise International Women’s Day (March 8) and its theme, “Accelerate Action,” this episode highlights the urgent need to address gender equality and health disparities.
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, patient, or advocate, tune in to learn how this event is shaping the future of women’s health in the Cayman Islands and beyond.
To learn more about the conference, visit https://www.hsa.ky/events-classes/womens-health-conference
#WomensHealth #InternationalWomensDay #HSAWomensHealth #HSACaymanIslands
In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, we take a deep dive into the newly launched Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programme for patients with chronic lung diseases like COPD, interstitial lung disease, and cystic fibrosis.
Joining us are Holly MacKenzie, Respiratory Therapist, and Karen Stewart, Senior Nursing Officer, who share insights on how this 12-week medically supervised programme helps patients breathe easier, build endurance, and regain independence through a combination of exercise, education, and expert support.
We explore why this programme is so crucial for the Cayman Islands, the real impact it has on reducing hospital admissions, and how caregivers and families can play a vital role in patient success.
To learn more, visit www.hsa.ky
#PulmonaryRehab #HSACaymanIslands #HealthcareTodayWithHSA
With flu season in full swing, many parents are concerned about common seasonal illnesses affecting children.
In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, Dr. Linden Swan, Consultant Paediatrician, joins us to break down the most common illnesses this time of year, including flu, RSV, ear infections, hand, foot & mouth disease, and stomach bugs, and how parents can protect their little ones.
We’ll discuss how to spot the difference between the flu and a cold, when to seek medical attention, and the role of vaccines in prevention.
Dr. Swan also shares natural ways to boost immunity, important insights on antibiotics, and tips for managing symptoms at home.
With children back in school and daycare, preventing the spread of illness is more important than ever.
Tune in for expert advice on keeping your family healthy this season!
To learn more about HSA Paediatrics, visit https://www.hsa.ky/medical-services/paediatrics
To learn more about children's vaccination, visit https://www.hsa.ky/public-health/child-immunisation
#PaediatricCare #SeasonalIllness #HSACaymanIslands #HealthcareTodayWithHSA
Planning a trip? Wondering about adult vaccinations?
In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, we sit down with Nurse Annie K Price, Public Health Nurse, to explore the essential services provided by the Adult & International Travel Health Clinic.
From routine immunisations to specialised travel health advice, learn how to protect yourself from preventable diseases at home and abroad.
We’ll also clear up common vaccine misconceptions including Yellow Fever, discuss travel health risks, and share expert tips on staying safe during international trips.
The HSA Public Health Clinic is the only approved Yellow Fever Centre in the Cayman Islands.
To learn more, visit https://www.hsa.ky/public-health
#AdultVaccination #HSAPublicHealth #HealthcareTodayWithHSA #HSACaymanIslands
In this episode of Healthcare Today with HSA, we dive into the launch of the HSA Patient Call Centre.
Join us as we speak with Nia Prendergast, Patient Experience Manager, and Ellenor Kerr, Patient Experience Officer, about how this centralised hub is transforming patient communication, reducing wait times, and streamlining access to healthcare services.
Learn about the dedicated professionals behind the calls, their specialised training, and how HSA ensures top-notch service while safeguarding patient privacy.
To learn more about HSA Patient Call Centre, call 345 949 8600#HealthcareTodayWithHSA #HSACallCentre #PatientCare #HSACaymanIslands