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HEU, Centre for Health Economics, UWI: Making a Difference in Caribbean Countries

The Health Economics Unit (HEU) at The University of the West Indies (UWI)

Logos of the University of the West Indies and HEU Centre for Health Economics displayed over a panoramic view of St. Augustine, Trinidad — representing regional leadership in health policy, economics, and innovation across the Caribbean.

Since 1995, The University of the West Indies, HEU, Centre for Health Economics (UWI-HEU) has been a leader in advancing health economics and policy in the Caribbean. With its mission of “Making a Difference”, the Centre provides research, training, and policy support that helps governments design stronger health systems, promote equity in care, and secure healthier futures for their people.

Key Achievements

  • Social Health Insurance: Supported technical design in Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and the British Virgin Islands.
  • National Health Accounts: Completed studies in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Healthcare and Disease Costing: Produced costing studies in Barbados, Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Non-Communicable Diseases: Developed an investment case for NCDs in Barbados.
  • Fiscal Policy: Conducted regional studies on tobacco, alcohol, and sugar-sweetened beverage taxation.
  • Poverty and Vulnerability: Advanced multidimensional poverty and vulnerability studies in Trinidad and Tobago.

Partnerships and Recognition

The UWI-HEU has collaborated with Caribbean governments, CARICOM, CARPHA, PAHO/WHO, and the World Bank, ensuring its work is evidence-based and regionally relevant. In 2020, it was designated a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Health Economics and Financing, further solidifying its global recognition and regional importance.

Advancing Regional Dialogue

The Centre also convenes the Annual Conference on National Health Financing Initiatives, now in its 16th year. The upcoming 2025 conference in Nassau, The Bahamas (October 15–18), will explore how information systems, artificial intelligence, and data analytics can optimize health financing for the Caribbean. Register for the conference at: https://conferences.sta.uwi.edu/healthfinancing/registration/.

Looking Ahead

For 30 years, UWI-HEU has remained committed to helping countries achieve resilient health systems and equitable care. Through rigorous research and strong partnerships, it continues to make a lasting difference in health and development across the region.

🔗 Learn more: UWI-HEU Publications: https://sta.uwi.edu/fss/heu/publications

Nevena Nemes

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