Bahamas sign agreement with China for new hospital

Bahamas and China have signed a framework agreement for the construction of a new specialty hospital in western New Providence, Bahamas – an initiative which is said to represent continued friendship and mutual respect between the two countries.

The hospital is estimated to cost nearly $300 million and will be completed in 30-36 months. It is being funded through a concessional 20-year loan from China Export-Import Bank.

The new specialty hospital will have diagnostic and interventional imaging services; will support molecular medicine services, and have a neonatal intensive care unit. The facility will offer same-day surgeries and minor procedures, a blood bank and laboratory services, a national reference morgue and pathology services along with diagnostic and interventional imaging services.

Bahamas Prime Minister Phillip Davis

Bahamas Prime Minister Phillip Davis said at the signing ceremony for the project that this is a much-needed upgrade to the Bahamian health sector and will be of great benefit to residents.

“For too long, Bahamians have had to contend with the same painful realities: long waiting times, overburdened clinics, outdated facilities, and limited access in our Family Islands.

“Too many people have felt like the system was out of reach or working against them. And for our doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers, the conditions have often made an already difficult job even more challenging. We cannot accept that as the standard. We will not accept that,” he said

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He added further added, “This cooperation will help us build infrastructure that is fit for purpose, and designed with the needs of our population in mind. It also allows us to continue strengthening ties with a nation that has consistently offered support grounded in mutual benefit.”