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Your go-to hub for timely updates, trending medical news, expert commentaries, CME activities, celebratory milestones, and heartfelt messages. Whether we're sharing the latest in healthcare, spotlighting achievements, or honouring those we've lost, the CCFP Blog keeps our regional family informed, connected, and inspired. Stay tuned, stay engaged, stay informed!
World Family Doctor Day Jamaica 2024 Awards Banquet
Honouring a Life of Service, Compassion, and Dedication
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Dr. Tomlin Paul, who departed this life in early March 2026. His loss is profoundly felt across the medical fraternity and the many communities he served with unwavering commitment and care.
Dr. Paul was more than a physician—he was a healer in the truest sense. Throughout his career, he exemplified the core values of family medicine: compassion, continuity of care, and a deep respect for the dignity of every patient. His approach to medicine was not merely clinical, but deeply human, marked by empathy, attentiveness, and a genuine concern for the wellbeing of those entrusted to his care.
Colleagues remember Dr. Paul as a dedicated professional who upheld the highest standards of medical practice. He was known for his calm demeanor, thoughtful clinical judgment, and willingness to support and mentor others. Whether in consultation rooms, clinical discussions, or professional gatherings, his presence was one of quiet strength and wisdom.
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Paul touched lives in countless ways. Patients valued not only his expertise but his kindness—the reassuring words, the extra time given, and the sense that they were truly seen and heard. These qualities defined his legacy and set an example for all who follow in the noble calling of medicine.
His passing is a reminder of the profound impact that one individual can have within the healthcare system and the wider society. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that the practice of medicine is not only about curing disease, but about caring for people—and in this, Dr. Paul excelled.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. May they find comfort in the memories of his life, his service, and his enduring legacy.
Dr. Tomlin Paul’s contribution to medicine and to humanity will not be forgotten. His life stands as a testament to the values we strive to uphold as physicians.
The document is a report titled "Pathway to Policy: Firearms Trafficking and Public Health in the Caribbean," which aims to improve data analysis and policy responses related to firearms proliferation and its public health impacts in the region.
Credits: The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA)
Overview of Firearms Trafficking and Public Health
The report examines the intersection of firearms trafficking and public health in the Caribbean, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated responses to address the rising violence and its economic impacts.
Trends in Firearm-Related Violence
Firearms involved in 86% of homicides in 2023–24.
Gang violence, particularly in Haiti, is a significant contributor.
Recruitment of children into armed gangs is increasing.
Impact on Healthcare Systems
Average medical costs for gunshot patients exceed annual health spending by 5:1 in The Bahamas, 3:1 in Barbados, and 8:1 in Jamaica.
Estimated productivity losses: USD 72 million in The Bahamas, USD 19 million in Barbados, and USD 135 million in Jamaica due to firearm injuries.
Firearms Trafficking Dynamics
Handguns dominate illicit firearms, with a rise in AR- and AK-pattern rifles.
Maritime shipments from the U.S. are the primary trafficking vector.
Trafficking of high-capacity magazines is concentrated in specific Caribbean destinations.
Policy Recommendations for Addressing Firearm Violence
National actions: Strengthen community prevention, integrate public health into security strategies, and enhance offender management.
Regional actions: Establish a multisectoral commission, intensify joint operations, and create a Caribbean Integrated Violence Surveillance System for better data sharing and analysis.
Regional-Level Actions to Combat Firearm Violence
Establish a Regional Multisectoral Commission to enhance evidence-informed policy-making across security, healthcare, and civil society sectors.
Intensify joint counter-trafficking operations with non-CARICOM jurisdictions and improve intelligence sharing.
Sustain high-level engagement with US counterparts to disrupt trafficking networks supplying the Caribbean.
Provide up-to-date training for law enforcement on weapons identification and tracing.
Target the interdiction of illicit firearms, particularly rifles and large-capacity magazines.
Enhance intelligence-led screening at high-risk entry and exit points to improve interdiction efforts.
Develop resources to ensure the security and resilience of healthcare facilities against firearm-related incidents.
Create a regional injury surveillance working group to promote data sharing and evidence-based crime prevention.
National-Level Actions for Firearm Violence Prevention
Scale up multisectoral prevention efforts at the community level, integrating law enforcement and public health.
Integrate public health measures into national security strategies to protect healthcare workers and facilities.
Strengthen offender management and re-entry programs to reduce recidivism among firearm offenders.
Support non-intrusive inspection systems at key ports to enhance package screening.
Strengthen regulations on courier services to improve package screening and compliance penalties.
Prioritize an integrated approach in Haiti, combining arms embargo enforcement with long-term development investments.
Develop preventive interventions for at-risk children and youth to deter gang recruitment.
Deploy counter-narratives against violence in communities to reduce the social prestige of firearms.
Trends in Firearm-Related Violence in the Caribbean
The regional homicide rate has more than doubled, reaching 43.8 per 100,000 population from 2023 to 2024.
Firearm homicides accounted for 86% of all homicides in CARICOM member states between 2023 and 2024.
Gang violence is a significant contributor, with reports indicating it accounts for up to 70% of homicides in some areas.
Hospitals are increasingly targeted in shootings, posing risks to healthcare providers and patients.
The misuse of high-risk firearms, including AK- and AR-pattern rifles, is on the rise, increasing the lethality of violence.
Impact of Firearm Violence on Healthcare Workers
Approximately 39% of healthcare workers (HCWs) in a 2024 study across seven Caribbean countries reported experiencing violence.
In Trinidad and Tobago, 45% of respondents experienced violence, with 76% witnessing it over two years.
Patient mental health issues and inadequate security measures were cited as primary causes of violence against HCWs.
Rising firearm violence in Haiti has severely disrupted healthcare services, with over 60% of facilities in Port-au-Prince non-operational by mid-2025.
Psychological well-being of HCWs is negatively impacted, leading to reduced job satisfaction and trust in health administration.
Trends in Firearm Violence in the Caribbean
The Caribbean faces increasing gun violence, with homicide rates rising since 2016, particularly among young men.
Haiti is the most affected, with rampant gang activity and severe disruptions to essential services.
Transnational criminal networks exploit the region's geography for arms trafficking, complicating law enforcement efforts.
Gangs compete for territory, leading to increased shootings, often involving innocent bystanders.
Firearm Trafficking Dynamics and Sources
Handguns dominate illicit firearms in the Caribbean, comprising 88% of seizures, while AR- and AK-pattern rifles are on the rise.
Trafficking is heavily concentrated in Florida, with 75% of seized shipments originating from Miami.
Recent data indicates a stable trafficking dynamic, with little change in procurement locations or transport modes.
Non-US sources of firearms are under-researched, but evidence suggests trafficking from South America and other regions is occurring.
Recommendations for Addressing Firearm Violence
Integrate health-sector threat management into national security strategies.
Prioritize facility risk assessments, incident reporting, and psychosocial support for HCWs.
Enhance collaboration between law enforcement and healthcare providers to improve safety and security in healthcare settings.
Overview of Firearm Seizures in the Caribbean
The text provides detailed data on firearm seizures across various Caribbean countries, highlighting the modes of transport, types of firearms, and the countries of origin. It emphasizes the growing issue of firearm trafficking and its implications for public safety.
Firearm Seizures by Country and Location
Seizures occurred in St. Lucia, The Bahamas, Belize, and Jamaica.
Notable seizures include multiple firearms and ammunition types, such as Glock pistols and shotguns.
The Bahamas reported significant seizures at Lynden Pindling International Airport, with multiple firearms confiscated in 2024.
Direct Medical Costs of Firearm Injuries
Estimated direct medical costs for non-fatal firearm injuries: USD 1.6 million in The Bahamas, USD 228,000 in Barbados, and USD 2 million in Jamaica for 2024.
The average cost of treating a single firearm injury exceeds annual public health expenditure per capita by ratios of 5:1 in The Bahamas, 3:1 in Barbados, and 8:1 in Jamaica.
Productivity Losses Due to Firearm Violence
Total productivity losses from firearm-related injuries: USD 72 million in The Bahamas, USD 19 million in Barbados, and USD 135 million in Jamaica.
Fatal injuries lead to significant productivity losses, with younger victims contributing to higher economic impacts.
Need for Improved Data Collection Systems
Emphasizes the importance of integrating data collection on gunshot wounds into existing surveillance systems.
Calls for a regional injury surveillance system to monitor firearm-related morbidity and mortality effectively.
Gun Violence Trends in the Caribbean
The Caribbean faces high gun violence rates, with increased homicides since 2016, briefly reduced by Covid-19.
Young men predominantly commit homicides and robberies using firearms, with alarming recruitment of children into gangs.
Illicit Firearms and Trafficking
Handguns are the most seized firearms, with rising seizures of rifles and large-capacity magazines.
Traffickers from the U.S., especially Florida and Georgia, are key players, but half of traced firearms come from other regions, including South America.
Public Health Impact of Firearm Violence
Gunshot wound treatment costs exceed annual healthcare expenditures per capita.
Firearm injuries lead to significant disability and productivity losses, diverting resources from prevention and development initiatives.
Multisectoral Approach for Solutions
A balanced strategy between crime response and prevention is essential for addressing firearm violence.
Regional leaders are committed to enhancing surveillance, legislation, and public awareness to combat illicit firearms trafficking.
This
document discusses the systemic issue of firearm-related violence in the
Caribbean and proposes a public health approach to address it.
Credits : The Authors - Natasha P. Sobers,ᵃ,∗ Joeleita Agard,ᵃ Katrina Norville,ᵃ Anne-Séverine Fabre,ᵇ Nicolas Florquin,ᵇ Callixtus Joseph,ᶜ Madeleine Joseph,ᵈ Maria Garcia-Joseph,ᵉ Reginald King,ᶠ P Jason Toppin,ᵍ Hugh Wong,ʰ and Simon G. Andersonᵃ,ⁱ
Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). www.thelancet.com Vol 52 December, 2025
Firearm-Related
Violence in the Caribbean
Gun violence in the
Caribbean has reached crisis levels, prompting regional leaders to
advocate for a public health approach to prevention and control.
A multisectoral group
has been formed to develop a "Pathway to Policy" using systems
mapping to understand firearm-related crimes and injuries across thirteen
Caribbean countries.
The analysis reveals
feedback loops where firearm-related crimes contribute to household
poverty, national economic costs, and a culture of violence, reinforcing
gun violence.
Interventions suggested
include reducing illicit firearm access, enhancing social development
programs, and investing in education to balance gun violence rates.
Public
Health Approach to Violence
The public health
approach emphasizes understanding root causes rather than solely relying
on law enforcement.
The CDC outlines four
phases for addressing violence: defining the problem, identifying risk
factors, developing prevention strategies, and ensuring widespread
adoption.
Collaboration among
stakeholders from health, security, and other sectors is essential for
effective planning and response to this complex issue.
Current
Homicide Rates and Trends
The Americas, including
the Caribbean, have a homicide rate significantly higher than the global
average, with some Caribbean countries reporting rates up to nine times
higher.
Firearms are used in
over half of the homicides in the region, with Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad
and Tobago, and the Bahamas having the highest rates.
The situation is
particularly dire in Haiti, where gangs control significant areas and have
access to military-grade firearms, exacerbating violence and food
insecurity.
CARICOM's
Response and Initiatives
CARICOM has recognized
crime as a barrier to socio-economic development and has shifted towards a
public health framework to address violence.
This shift was
formalized in 2023 during a symposium that called for a holistic approach
involving various societal sectors.
The collaboration
between the Small Arms Survey and CARICOM IMPACS has led to the
"Weapons Compass: The Caribbean Firearms Study," which
highlights the public health and economic consequences of armed violence.
Systems
Mapping and Analysis
The systems mapping
technique was employed to identify factors contributing to firearm-related
injuries and crimes, revealing complex interconnections.
Causal loop diagrams
(CLDs) were developed to visualize these relationships, emphasizing the
importance of understanding the dynamics of firearm-related violence.
The analysis identified
reinforcing loops related to household poverty, national economic costs,
and the culture of violence, as well as balancing loops involving public
policy and education.
Key
Findings and Recommendations
The study emphasizes
the need for a balanced approach that integrates crime response strategies
with prevention efforts.
Recommendations include
establishing a regional framework for violence research, creating a public
data repository for injury surveillance, enhancing collaboration between
public health and law enforcement, and implementing evidence-informed
public health campaigns to shift social norms.
Educational and social
development programs are crucial for addressing the root causes of firearm
violence and should be prioritized alongside law enforcement measures.
Conclusion
Addressing
firearm-related violence in the Caribbean requires a comprehensive,
systemic approach that combines public health, education, and social
development with security measures.
The document calls for
regional and international cooperation to tackle the issue effectively,
recognizing that no single solution is sufficient.
Future efforts should
focus on leveraging systems thinking to develop coordinated action plans
that address the complex interplay of factors contributing to firearm
violence.
Honoring Dr. Alverston Bailey: Commander of the Order of Distinction
The Caribbean College of Family Physicians (CCFP) proudly celebrates Dr. Alverston Bailey, who has been conferred with the Order of Distinction, Commander Class (CD) by the Government of Jamaica. He received this national honor on Jamaica’s National Heroes Day, Monday, October 20, 2025, during the official public awards ceremony.
This recognition underscores Dr. Bailey’s distinguished service to Occupational and Family Medicine and his transformative contributions to public health advocacy, medical education, and community development in Jamaica and across the Caribbean.
A Legacy of Excellence in Medicine and Public Health
Dr. Bailey embodies the ideals of distinguished service, transformative leadership, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of health and society. With a career spanning more than four decades, his impact has been felt in diverse but interconnected fields:
Family Medicine: During his tenure as Regional President of the CCFP, he championed regional collaboration, fostered evidence-based practice, and successfully integrated the College into the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA). His leadership extended further as President of the Medical Association of Jamaica, where he championed professional standards, community outreach, and policy advocacy, including the landmark Patient Charter of Rights.
Public Service: As Chairman of the Pesticides Control Authority (2006–2015), Dr. Bailey oversaw vital reforms in pesticide regulation, food safety, and environmental stewardship. His vision elevated Jamaica’s pesticide management framework and advanced national food security.
Commitment to Service and Education
Dr. Bailey has devoted himself to service far beyond his professional roles:
Education: As an academic mentor and lecturer, he shaped the careers of future medical leaders through his teaching at the University of Technology and his leadership roles in medical schools.
Public Advocacy: Through syndicated columns, radio programs such as On Call with Dr. Al and Sexwise, and his landmark book Sexplanation: A Guide to Discussing Sex and Sexuality in the Caribbean, he brought vital health knowledge to the public.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Bailey has received numerous distinctions throughout his career, including:
The Medical Association of Jamaica President’s Award (2003)
The Caribbean College of Family Physicians Chairperson’s Award (2005)
Fellowship in the Caribbean College of Family Physicians (2006)
The Sir Alister McIntyre Distinguished Award (2022) for diabetes advocacy
The World Family Doctor Day Signature Award (2024)
These accolades culminate in the honor of Commander of the Order of Distinction, recognizing his national and regional legacy.
A Life of Integrity and Inspiration
Dr. Bailey is not only a physician and advocate but also a man of deep integrity, family devotion, and community spirit. A native of Tom Bell, Rio Bueno, Trelawny, his journey from “Kangaroo Kid” scholar to medical leader exemplifies the power of discipline, wisdom, and service.
Married to Clarissa for thirty-eight years, and a proud father and grandfather, Dr. Bailey balances his professional life with personal passions, including photography, poetry, and mentoring.
His personal philosophy is a guiding light:
“Let your life be so well lived that it stands as a beacon for all to emulate.”
CCFP Regional Tribute
The Caribbean College of Family Physicians extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Alverston Bailey, CD. His career represents the highest standards of medicine, ethics, and public service, and his achievements will continue to inspire physicians, communities, and future generations across the Caribbean.
Lisbon greeted us like an old friend—warm, colorful, full of music, and unexpectedly emotional. WONCA 2025 was more than a conference; it was a reunion of hearts, a celebration of excellence, and a shared reminder of why Family Medicine remains humanity’s most compassionate specialty.
As we stepped into the rhythm of the city, these snapshots became our living postcard.
✨ Reunion at the Lisbon Conference Centre
Marvin, Tania, Marie-Jo and Paula hugging
The very first moments set the tone. At the entrance, hugs flew freely—Marvin, Tania, Marie-Jo, and Paula—all wrapped in the joy of reconnection. After a year of virtual planning, emails, and late-night discussions, finally meeting in person felt like a homecoming.
Dr. Kathleen Sangster-Singh and Dr. Aldyth Buckland
“I am a hugger,” she reminded everyone, and Lisbon was more than ready for warm embraces.
Caribbean group meet-up for supper after opening ceremony WONCA 2025
From left to right stood the women who shaped the movement:
Elizabeth Reji, outgoing Chair—Karen Flegg, outgoing WONCA President—Lucy Candib, honorary member—and Hina Jawaid, the newly appointed Chair of the Working Party.
Their smiles carried legacy, accomplishment, and momentum for the future.
The North American Region received a special award—Outstanding Achievements as a Working Party.
We were celebrated for membership growth, collaboration, and commitment, and even presented to the other six WONCA regions on how we achieved it. The applause was heartfelt; the pride was ours.
North America Region Award Presentation
🌱 Planetary Health Pre-Conference Workshop
Planetary Health Workshop (Ozden, Sankha, you; Tamica and Seni joining virtually)
This workshop felt like standing at the intersection of medicine and the future.
Outgoing president Ozden stood on the left; the incoming president, Sankha, on the right—and in between, our regional voices.
Tamica and Seni joined virtually, proving that distance cannot weaken dedication.
🎨 Lisbon’s Airport Murals – Art in Motion
Murals at Lisbon Airport (multiple placeholders)
Lisbon welcomed us with splashes of color even before we touched the city.
The airport walls were alive—murals of culture, history, and imagination. Each stroke of paint whispered, “Welcome to a city that breathes art.”
More murals stood proudly as we walked further—each one a quiet invitation to explore.
🏙 Evening in Lisbon – A View from the Apartment
7:45 pm traffic view from apartment window
From the window at 7:45 pm, the city slowed to an exhale.
The traffic thinned, lights shimmered like scattered jewels, and Lisbon’s evening settled into a peaceful hum.
It was the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and whisper gratitude for the privilege of being here.
🎶 WONCA 2025 – Opening Ceremony
The ceremony began with music, movement, and emotion. Lisbon delivered an atmosphere that felt both celebratory and sacred.
You could feel the heartbeat of the global family medicine community pulsing through the hall.
🇯🇲 Caribbean Delegation in Lisbon
President Marvin and Secretary Tania proudly stood among the Caribbean attendees—a small but powerful representation of resilience, excellence, and unity.
Our presence echoed through the conference centre: The Caribbean is here.
The Caribbean is contributing.
The Caribbean is rising.
🎵 Musical Moments & Warm Words
Aldyth, Tania, and musicians
Dr. Viviana, Aldyth, and musicians
The music filled the hall with warmth, and Dr. Viviana delivered a beautiful thank-you speech in Portuguese, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the musicians.
Her gestures, her tone—every part of her showed pure joy.
✨ A Surprise from Home (Jamaica) – Usain Bolt in Lisbon
While waiting for the tram, Aldyth spotted an ad featuring Jamaica’s own Usain Bolt at the bus stop outside the Lisbon Conference Centre.
A piece of home, shining proudly across the world.
It felt like Jamaica was cheering her on.
🏆 WONCA Awards & Inauguration Ceremony, 2025
The hall glowed under the grandeur of the WONCA Awards and Inauguration Ceremony. Anticipation filled the air as the global community honored excellence from every region.
🌟 WONCA 5-Star Doctor – A Caribbean Triumph
The WONCA Awards Ceremony took place on September 20, 2025 at the Lisbon Congress Centre, Lisbon, Portugal.
Dr. Aldyth on stage, 5-Star Doctor 2024 announcement
The stage is being set
Video still – 5 Star Awardees 2024 & 2025 Announcement
Group of 2024 Regional Awardees
WONCA 5 Star Doctor (Regional Awards) for 2024
From left to right:
*North America Region
Dr. Aldyth Buckland (Jamaica)
*Europe Region
Dr. Nato Shengelia (Georgia)
*Africa Region
Dr. Dan Abubakar
(Nigeria)
*Iberoamericana Region- CIMF
Representative for Dr. Maria Inez Padula Anderson ( Brazil)
*Eastern Mediterranean Region
Representative for Dr. Maisa Al Kiyumi (Oman)
*South Asia Region
(Absent) Dr. Sanath Hettige ( Sri Lanka)
*Asia Pacific Region
(Absent) Dr. Karin Estepa - Garcia (Philippines)
Aldyth & Tania at Lisbon Conference Centre
WONCA 5 Star Doctors (Region) 2024 Dr. Nato Shengelia for Europe and Dr. Aldyth
Buckland for North America Region
Aldyth & Kathleen Sangster-Singh
And then—our moment.
The announcement rang out:
“WONCA 5-Star Doctor, North America Region…
Dr. Aldyth Buckland.”
The hall erupted. Caribbean pride soared.
Beside her stood Dr. Tania Whitby-Best, WONCA North America Region President—beaming.
Two shining stars from CCFP:
✨ Dr. Aldyth Buckland – 5 Star Doctor (North America Region)
✨ Dr. Kathleen Sangster-Singh – Montegut Scholar (North America Region)
It was history.
It was legacy.
It was a moment we will carry forever.
💌 Closing the Postcard
Lisbon gave us more than a conference.
It gave us laughter, art, music, sisterhood…
…and a powerful reminder that the Caribbean continues to shine brightly on the world stage of Family Medicine.
Until the next WONCA, may this postcard remind us that we are part of something bigger—
a global community… united in care, compassion, and commitment.
Course starts Thursday September 12noon-1:30pm EST
On behalf of Dr. James Hospedales and the EarthMedic/EarthNurse Foundation for Planetary Health, I am pleased to share with you an exciting opportunity to participate in the upcoming course:
Scaling Up Health Adaptation Measures to Meet the Climate Change Challenge in The Americas
Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 25 – October 30, 2025 Time: 2:00 – 3:30 PM (Uruguay Standard Time)/ 5:00-6:30 PM UTC Format: Online (flyer attached for details)
This free 11-session course is designed to equip health professionals, system planners, administrators, sustainability officers, public health officials, and others with the tools and strategies needed to rapidly scale up adaptation, mitigation, and resilience efforts to prepare health systems for climate change.
Through interactive discussions and expert presentations, participants will:
Develop priority actions to protect health and health systems in a more severe climate regime.
Learn to apply existing climate and health guidance to drive rapid and effective adaptation.
Engage with peers across the region to share experiences, challenges, and lessons learned.
We warmly extend this invitation not only to you, but also to members of your professional network and your organization’s wider community who would benefit from participating. We kindly ask that you share this opportunity with colleagues, partners, and networks who are committed to advancing climate and health adaptation.
Your participation and support in extending this invitation will help ensure that the knowledge and tools shared in this course reach as many relevant professionals as possible.
Please click on the link above for the course schedule and registration details.
We look forward to your engagement in this important initiative.
Kind regards
Dr. Paula Henry -WONCA Caribbean Regional Lead, WP Planetary Health
EarthMedic and EarthNurse Foundation for Planetary Health
Bulletin with schedule.pdf
Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 25 – October 30, 2025
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 PM (Uruguay Standard Time)/ 5:00-6:30 PM UTC
Format: Online (flyer attached for details)
Please click on the link above for the course schedule and registration details.
