The Bahamas has made major strides in expanding its national immunization program. During the last years, three new biologicals were introduced, namely, Varicella vaccine, DTaP Adults and Pneumococcal Conjugated Pediatric 13-Valent. The Pneumococcal Unconjugated Adult 23-valent will be introduced this year. The rapid evolution of the program poses a challenge for the cold chain system of the country.

Policy-makers in countries worldwide are continually reviewing avenues to guarantee universal health coverage to all their citizens that is financially feasible and sustainable. Reviews have been conducted on the method of fund collection, how funds are pooled to spread risks, which services are provided free and which are purchased, and how doctors, nurses, and other staff are paid. Focus has also been directed at ways to cope with soaring health care costs, changing disease patterns, and the rising expectations and demands of their populations.

Dr. Devora Kestel,  PAHO/WHO's Regional Advisor on Mental Health, visited The Bahamas on March 12 and 13, 2013.  The overall objective of her visit was to provide technical advice and training to the institutions and personnel involved in the activities related to disaster preparedness and response, with particular emphasis on issues surrounding mental health response during emergencies.