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:
Occupational Health: As Chief Medical Officer at Kaiser Jamaica Bauxite Company, Dr. Bailey pioneered industrial health programs that reshaped workplace safety and wellbeing. His certification by the American College of Occupational Medicine cemented his standing as a global leader in occupational health.
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:
Volunteerism: His leadership extended to the Diabetes Association of Jamaica, St. Ann Red Cross Society, and several national boards and health initiatives.
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.
