PAHO significantly strengthened Antigua and Barbuda’s capacity to prevent and manage noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions by supporting policy reform, service reorganization, and workforce strengthening within a primary health care (PHC) framework. Through direct technical assistance, the Organization supported the completion or updating of national NCD policy instruments and the expansion of evidence-based service delivery models, including the HEARTS initiative for hypertension and diabetes management. In parallel, PAHO worked with national counterparts to strengthen mental health governance and advance legislative and policy reforms, including the development of mental health bills or drafting instructions, laying the foundation for rights-based, community-oriented services. Capacity-building interventions, such as Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) training and Quality Rights-related actions, equipped primary care providers with standardized tools to identify, manage, and refer patients with priority mental health conditions. Communication and youth engagement activities further supported suicide prevention efforts.

These combined outputs strengthen continuity and quality of care at the first level of care, reduce fragmentation between physical and mental health services, and improve access for populations in need. By embedding NCD and mental health services within PHC, PAHO’s cooperation contributes to earlier diagnosis, better treatment adherence, and a reduction in avoidable complications, supporting long-term reductions in morbidity and premature mortality while advancing the Better Care for NCDs initiative.