Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) Certified as an Essential Stroke Centre by the World Stroke Organization

Milestone achievement marks a new era for stroke care in Antigua & Barbuda 

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, October 19, 2025 — The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has officially been certified as an Essential Stroke Centre by the World Stroke Organization (WSO)—a landmark recognition that places Antigua and Barbuda on the global map for specialized, high-quality stroke care. 

The certification follows a rigorous assessment of the hospital’s stroke care systems, clinical protocols, emergency response, and multidisciplinary collaboration. It confirms that SLBMC meets international standards for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke—one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. 

“This is a defining moment not just for our hospital, but for our nation,” said Dr. Gaden Osborne, Neurologist and Chair of Subspecialty Services at SLBMC, who led the certification effort. “For years, we’ve been working to ensure that patients in Antigua and Barbuda can access timely, evidence-based stroke care without leaving home. This certification validates that work and inspires us to keep improving.” 

Under Dr. Osborne’s leadership, SLBMC’s stroke team has worked tirelessly to strengthen care coordination, training, and community awareness around stroke response. 

During the WSO assessment earlier this year, the team faced a real-time test when a patient presented with stroke symptoms just as evaluators were observing the hospital’s systems. The team’s quick, coordinated, and effective response demonstrated the strength of SLBMC’s protocols in action. 

Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, SLBMC’s Medical Director, praised the milestone as “a powerful example of what’s possible when commitment, collaboration, and compassion come together.” 

“Stroke care is one of the most time-sensitive areas in medicine,” said Dr. Belle-Jarvis. “This certification is proof that our teams are not only capable but prepared—that we can deliver world-class care right here in Antigua and Barbuda when it matters most.” 

Salma Crump, Head of Marketing & Communications, added that the achievement reflects SLBMC’s broader mission of elevating healthcare across the region. 

“This certification isn’t just a hospital win—it’s a community win,” Crump said. “Every patient and family who has been affected by stroke should know that their hospital has the systems, the people, and the passion to deliver the best possible care. It’s about trust, and it’s about progress.” 

SLBMC’s designation as an Essential Stroke Centre aligns with the hospital’s ongoing efforts to advance clinical excellence, expand specialized services, and build a resilient, patient-centered health system for Antigua and Barbuda.

About Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre 

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre is the national referral hospital of Antigua and Barbuda. Committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality, and accessible healthcare, SLBMC provides a full range of medical and surgical services, training programs, and specialty care. The hospital continues to lead national health initiatives aimed at improving outcomes and strengthening the country’s healthcare system. 

See more information at: https://www.msjmc.org/