Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, accompanied by senior officials of the Ministry of Health and Wellness and representatives of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), toured the construction site of the new government health clinic in Stephenson, Cat Island, marking another significant milestone in the government’s ongoing programme to modernize healthcare infrastructure throughout The Bahamas.
Construction of the new clinic commenced in February 2026 and represents an investment of $8.4 million. The project forms part of a broader $40 million loan programme financed by the Inter-American Development Bank, which is supporting the government’s efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery across the country. Construction is expected to take between 18 and 24 months, with completion anticipated by June 2027.
Joining Minister Darville on the site visit, Wednesday, July 1, 2026 were: Minister of State, the Hon. Owen Wells; Director of Public Health, Dr. Philip Swann; Project Manager, Donald Demeritte; and Contractor Ephraim Finley and other technical officials. The IDB delegation included the Chief of Health, Nutrition and Population, Javier Guzman Cruz; Health and Social Protection Specialist, Ana Bernal Stuart; Sector Specialist, Livia Minoja; and Chief of Operations, Steven Collins, who observed the progress of the project and discussed its role within the wider healthcare modernization initiative.
Providing an overview of the facility, Dr. Philip Swann explained that upon completion, the clinic will be among the most advanced primary healthcare facilities in The Bahamas and will serve as a prototype for future government clinics throughout the country.
The new clinic will feature a dedicated morgue, medical waste management building, and an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) building, significantly expanding the scope of healthcare services available to residents of Cat Island. In addition to routine primary care, the facility will provide:
* Advanced care services;
* Minor surgical procedures;
* Central medical services;
* Emergency medical services;
* Dental services; and
* Other essential healthcare services designed to meet the growing needs of the island’s residents.
Dr. Swann noted that this is the first facility of its kind to be constructed under the government’s new clinic model and is intended to establish the standard for future healthcare facilities across the archipelago.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Michael Darville emphasized that the project forms part of the government’s broader commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery throughout The Bahamas, particularly in the Family Islands.
He noted that 52 government clinics have already undergone repairs and upgrades, while plans are underway to construct nine new clinics across the country.
Minister Darville explained that Cat Island was selected as the location for the first new prototype clinic because of its strategic importance, including its deep-water access, the need for continued economic and community development, and its proximity to surrounding settlements and resources.
He further highlighted that the facility is being developed under the ‘McKenzie Plan’, which incorporates a comprehensive digital health strategy featuring modern information technology systems and telemedicine capabilities, similar to those currently operating at the Palmetto Point Clinic in Eleuthera.
According to the Minister, the government’s long-term vision is for every inhabited island to benefit from this same standard of modern healthcare infrastructure and technology, ensuring greater access to quality healthcare regardless of geographic location.
Minister Darville also stressed that modern healthcare infrastructure is a critical component of national development. As The Bahamas continues to attract domestic and foreign investment, particularly within the Family Islands, investors increasingly expect reliable healthcare services alongside upgraded transportation and public infrastructure.
“The government recognizes that investors seeking opportunities in the Family Islands also require access to quality healthcare facilities, modern airports and supporting infrastructure,” he said. “These investments work together to create stronger, more resilient communities while encouraging sustainable economic growth.”
The new clinic will be constructed on more than two acres of land, providing ample space for future expansion and enhanced service delivery.
Minister Darville also referenced the government’s recent investment in transportation infrastructure, including the construction of the new airport in Arthur’s Town, Cat Island, noting that improvements in healthcare, transportation and other public services collectively support the government’s vision for balanced national development and improved quality of life throughout the Family Islands.
Once completed, the Stephenson Health Clinic is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare for residents of Cat Island while serving as a national model for future primary healthcare facilities across The Bahamas.
The delegation also visited the recently constructed 3,300 square foot community clinic in Old Bight, which was officially opened by Prime Minister, Hon. Philip Davis in March of this year.
