Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda plan to launch a remote medical booking system for Barbuda residents. The system would reduce repeated travel between the two islands for medical appointments.

The initiative forms part of broader healthcare upgrades approved for Barbuda. Officials said the changes will improve access to medical services and reduce inconvenience for patients.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant shared the update during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing. He said the Ministry of Health will work alongside the Ministry of Information Technology to develop the digital platform.

According to Merchant, the system will help residents book specialized medical services in Antigua remotely. These services include MRIs, X-rays, and other diagnostic appointments.

Currently, Barbudans often make several trips to Antigua during the booking process. First, they travel to Antigua to schedule appointments. Then, they return to Barbuda and travel back again on the appointment date.

Merchant said the new system will simplify that process significantly. Residents would complete paperwork and booking procedures remotely while remaining in Barbuda. As a result, patients would only travel when their appointment date arrives.

Additionally, officials believe the platform will reduce financial pressure on families. It could also save patients valuable time and improve access to healthcare services.

The digital booking initiative forms part of several healthcare improvements approved for Barbuda. #1 Cabinet approved plans to restore childbirth services at the Hannah Thomas Hospital. Since Hurricane Irma in 2017, Barbudan mothers have travelled to Antigua for deliveries.

#2 Cabinet also approved laboratory services for the Hannah Thomas Hospital. Officials expect the move to reduce routine medical travel between the islands.

#3 Meanwhile, the remote booking platform aims to improve healthcare access for specialized services in Antigua.

The government said the wider healthcare programme reflects its commitment to improving medical care in Barbuda. Officials also hope the upgrades will create a more efficient and accessible healthcare system for residents on the sister island.