PAHO strengthened Saint Lucia’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health emergencies through comprehensive technical support in the areas of preparedness, surveillance, and coordination. This included training in incident management systems, emergency operations, and mass casualty and all-hazards response, as well as support for the digitalization of syndromic and event-based surveillance systems. Laboratory readiness and early warning functions were reinforced through targeted capacity-building. At the subregional level, PAHO supported the establishment and operationalization of coordination mechanisms that enhance rapid information-sharing and collective response.  

These investments improved readiness to manage natural disasters, outbreaks, and other public health threats, helping to safeguard essential health services during crises. Strengthened preparedness and response capacities contribute directly to reduced morbidity and mortality during emergencies and to greater resilience of the health system in Saint Lucia. 

Photo caption: Participants at workshop to review and update the national multi-hazard health sector disaster management plan.

Credit: PAHO ECC