Caribbean must lead with data, research and innovation – Minister Anthony
– notes research must be turned into action for better health outcomes
Speaking at 70th Annual Health Research Conference hosted by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony made the call for the Caribbean to take a stronger lead in evidence-based, innovation-driven healthcare (Elton John photos)
By Staff Reporter |
GUYANA’S Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, has called on Caribbean nations to take a decisive leadership role in shaping their own healthcare future by strengthening research, producing regional data and embracing innovation to drive evidence-based policy and better health outcomes.
Delivering remarks at the 70th Annual Health Research Conference hosted by the Caribbean Public Health Agency, Minister Anthony urged stakeholders to move beyond discussion and ensure that research directly informs decision-making across the region.
He warned that failure to generate and publish Caribbean-based findings would leave the region vulnerable to external narratives. “If we do not generate our own data, others will define our realities for us. If we do not publish our findings, our stories remain untold,” he said, underscoring the importance of ownership in scientific knowledge.
Recognised as the longest-running health- research conference in the English-speaking Caribbean, this year’s event has attracted more than 400 delegates, including chief medical officers, public health practitioners, researchers, policymakers and stakeholders.
Held under the theme, “Innovation in Health,” the conference—recognised as the longest-running health-research forum in the English-speaking Caribbean—has attracted more than 400 participants, including chief medical officers, researchers, policymakers, and public health practitioners. Anthony described the gathering as a critical platform for advancing Caribbean science, fostering collaboration, and strengthening the region’s research capacity.
The minister highlighted the urgency of strengthening research systems amid rapidly evolving global health challenges, including the resurgence of infectious diseases, the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the spread of misinformation. He stressed that research remains the most effective tool to navigate uncertainty and counter false narratives.
“In such a world, research is not optional, it is essential. It is how we move from assumption to evidence and transform challenges into solutions,” he stated.
Anthony also placed strong emphasis on publication, noting that research which is not shared widely fails to achieve its full impact. He said publishing scientific findings allows Caribbean voices to influence global discourse, guide clinical practice, and shape public policy.
“Publication is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of influence,” he said, calling for a stronger culture of writing, peer-reviewed output, and mentorship for emerging researchers across the region.
Turning to innovation, the minister said progress must extend beyond advanced technologies to include practical, scalable solutions that improve everyday healthcare delivery. He pointed to examples such as telemedicine services in remote communities, integrated digital health systems, the use of artificial intelligence in diagnostics and new models of care designed to bring services closer to patients. He further urged governments to create enabling environments for research by investing in laboratories, data systems, training, and partnerships at both regional and international levels. Importantly, he said, research must be translated into tangible action that improves lives.
“The ultimate goal of research is not publication alone—it is impact. It is better health outcomes, stronger systems, and longer, healthier lives for our people,” Anthony said.
Looking ahead, the minister encouraged regional leaders to recommit to core principles, including science-driven decision-making, collaboration, innovation, and the amplification of Caribbean voices through publication.
“CARPHA has given us a platform. Now it is up to us to use it—to push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and create knowledge that transforms lives,” he said. “Let this conference be more than a meeting of minds. Let it be a catalyst for bold research, stronger partnerships, and a Caribbean that leads, not follows, in the global health landscape.”
