Health Minister Mike Nesbitt met Dr Rhonda Sealey-Thomas, Assistant Director, Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), and colleagues at PAHO headquarters in Washington.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has concluded his visit to Washington, where he engaged with key healthcare leaders.
The Minister’s trip – to coincide with St Patrick’s Day celebrations – was focused on strengthening transatlantic partnerships and exploring innovative approaches to improving health and social care services in Northern Ireland. His final engagement today was a tour of the George Washington University Hospital.
During the visit, Minister Nesbitt met senior officials from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the Global Health Institute at Georgetown University, the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Centre, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which is an agency within the US Department of Health and Human Services, as well as leading healthcare providers, academics and research institutions.
Discussions centred on best practice in tackling waiting lists, enhancing mental health services and integrating cutting-edge technology into healthcare delivery.
Speaking at the conclusion of the visit, Minister Nesbitt said:
“This visit has been an invaluable opportunity to learn from international leaders in health and social care and to showcase Northern Ireland’s expertise on a global stage. Our health system faces significant challenges, but by engaging with partners in the US, we can explore innovative solutions that will benefit patients and frontline staff alike.”
The Minister also attended a series of engagements as part of the annual St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Washington, highlighting Northern Ireland’s potential as a leader in health technology, life sciences and medical research.
In addition, Minister Nesbitt participated in high-level discussions on the role of cross-border collaboration in healthcare, reinforcing the importance of shared learning between Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and international partners.
“I am grateful for the warm reception I received and for the opportunity to strengthen relationships that will support Northern Ireland’s health sector. I look forward to building on these discussions in the months ahead to deliver real improvements for patients,” the Minister added.