Baptist Health International and Cayman Islands Health Services Authority Join Forces for Better Caribbean Healthcare

MIAMI, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Baptist Health International (BHI), part of Baptist Health South Florida, and the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority (CIHSA), a Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited provider operating as a statutory authority under the Ministry of Health & Wellness, formalized their longstanding collaboration with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance healthcare delivery in the Cayman Islands. Key objectives of the agreement include expanding opportunities for observer programs, facilitating academic and educational activities for CIHSA staff, providing clinical training and advisory services, and promoting multidisciplinary peer discussions and consultations.

Dr. Galed Hakim, Assistant Vice President of Healthcare Partnerships and Insurance Development at Baptist Health International, and Lizzette Yearwood, CEO of the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority, proudly sign an MOU to strengthen collaboration and elevate healthcare services in the Cayman Islands.

“BHI and CIHSA have a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect and a commitment to advancing healthcare standards,” said Lizzette Yearwood, CEO of CIHSA. “This MOU underscores our shared dedication to advancing continuous improvement and innovation in healthcare delivery, as well as to expanding collaborative opportunities that benefit both our organizations and the broader community.”

Dr. Rogelio E. Ribas, Corporate Vice President of Baptist Health International, added that “BHI is honored to formalize our partnership with CIHSA through this MOU, which marks a significant milestone in our collaborative journey towards advancing healthcare excellence in the Caribbean. We look forward to working closely with CIHSA to achieve our mutual goals of enhancing patient care and fostering professional development.”

Baptist Health International is recognized globally for its expertise in healthcare management, education, and research. Through partnerships like the one with CIHSA, BHI aims to share knowledge, promote best practices, and contribute to the overall improvement of healthcare outcomes in the region.

The Cayman Islands Health Services Authority operates as the premier healthcare provider in the Cayman Islands, offering comprehensive services including 24-hour accident and emergency care, maternity services, dialysis, and specialized diagnostic services. Accredited by the Joint Commission International, CIHSA is committed to delivering world-class healthcare to the community.

About Baptist Health International

Baptist Health International is one of the largest hospital-based international programs in the United States, with more than 13,000 international patient visits at Baptist Health facilities from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach County. Baptist Health International is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality services for international physicians and their patients, including hospital admissions, outpatient medical exams, medical second opinions and physician consultations, as well as concierge services. For more information, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services. For more information on Baptist Health International’s collaborations and advisory services, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services/international-healthcare-professionals/international-collaborations or email Advisory@baptisthealth.net

About Baptist Health South Florida

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 27,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. The organization includes Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

About Cayman Islands Health Services Authority:

The Cayman Islands Health Services Authority (HSA) is a Joint Commission International (JCI) Accredited organization and the premier healthcare provider in the Cayman Islands. The George Town Hospital is a 127-bed facility and offers 24-hour accident and emergency services, ambulance services, an urgent care clinic, full maternity services and NICU, haemodialysis, a full-service outpatient pharmacy and several diagnostic and specialist services. We provide access to care across Grand Cayman through our four district health centres and outpatient clinics are located at Smith Road Medical Centre & Bay Town House. In the Sister Islands the Faith Hospital, an 18-bed facility in Cayman Brac serves their residents as well as a clinic in Little Cayman. The HSA is a statutory authority operating under the Ministry of Health & Wellness. For more information on the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority, visit https://www.hsa.ky/

Baptist Health International and Doctors Hospital Cayman, Collaborate Toward Joint Commission International Accreditation

MIAMI, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Baptist Health International, part of Baptist Health South Florida, and Doctors Hospital, a leading provider of private-sector hospital and healthcare services in the Cayman Islands, proudly unveiled a strategic collaboration aimed at pursuing Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation in 2025. With accreditation, Doctors Hospital will join a select number of institutions on the Island to attain this prestigious recognition, setting a new benchmark for quality healthcare delivery in the Caribbean.

Leaders from Baptist Health International and Doctors Hospital celebrate their strategic collaboration to pursue Joint Commission International Accreditation, marking a pivotal step toward elevating healthcare standards in the Cayman Islands.

With a partnership spanning 12 years, Baptist Health International has supported Doctors Hospital through advisory and consulting services. The two-year collaboration to prepare the hospital for the JCI survey underscores the institutions’ shared commitment to elevating healthcare standards in the Cayman Islands and the Caribbean region. The institutions will collaborate on knowledge transfer, education and quality initiatives.

“We have worked closely with Doctors Hospital in its pursuit of excellence in healthcare and are pleased to embark on a new phase of this partnership, recognizing the hospital’s pursuit of JCI accreditation as a testament to its ongoing commitment to delivering top-tier services to patients in the Cayman Islands,” said Rogelio E. Ribas, M.D., corporate vice president of Baptist Health International. “We are proud to support Doctors Hospital in this journey and look forward to continuing our collaboration to advance healthcare standards in the Caribbean region.”

With its multidisciplinary team of medical experts, Baptist Health International will offer comprehensive advisory services, assessments, training and readiness support to Doctors Hospital throughout the JCI accreditation process. The hospital will also participate in Baptist Health International’s Observership Program and attend healthcare symposiums, both in-person in Miami and virtually.

“With continuous support and inspiration from our partners at Baptist Health International, we are thrilled to take this monumental step on our journey toward excellence in healthcare,” said Dr med Yaron Rado, chair of the hospital’s Board of Directors and chief radiologist. “The next two years will bring a range of Baptist Health physicians and nurses to Grand Cayman, enriching our capabilities and reinforcing our dedication to serving our patients. We are grateful for the unwavering support of Baptist Health International throughout this journey, and look forward to further elevating healthcare standards in the Caribbean region together.”

About Baptist Health International

Baptist Health International is one of the largest hospital-based international programs in the United States, with more than 13,000 international patient visits at Baptist Health facilities from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach County. Baptist Health International is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality services for international physicians and their patients, including hospital admissions, outpatient medical exams, medical second opinions and physician consultations, as well as concierge services. For more information, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services

For more information on Baptist Health International’s collaborations and advisory services, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services/international-healthcare-professionals/international-collaborations or email Advisory@baptisthealth.net.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 27,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. The organization includes Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

About Doctors Hospital
Doctors Hospital, founded in 2000 and located in the heart of George Town, Grand Cayman, is recognized as a leading provider of international-standard healthcare services in the Caribbean. The hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, offering a comprehensive range of medical services that incorporate the latest advancements in diagnostic testing, imaging, and specialized physician care. As one of the most advanced healthcare facilities in the region, Doctors Hospital is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a team of highly skilled physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals. The hospital is committed to providing personalized care that meets the highest global standards, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible treatment and outcomes. Doctors Hospital is a trusted healthcare institution that combines modern medical practices with a community-focused approach, serving both local residents and international patients. The hospital’s reputation for excellence is built on a foundation of clinical expertise, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to improving patient health. For more information, please visit https://www.doctorshospital.ky

About The Joint Commission
Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in healthcare. It seeks to continuously improve healthcare for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating healthcare organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission accredits and certifies more than 21,000 healthcare organizations and programs in the United States. Learn more about The Joint Commission at www.jointcommission.org.

Legendary Jamaican Jazz Maestro Monty Alexander Presents ‘A Living History: Jamaica To Jazz’ At Lincoln Center

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, January 8, 2025: Celebrated Jamaican-born, Grammy-nominated jazz virtuoso, Hon. Dr. Monty Alexander, CD, O.J., is set to usher in 2025 in spectacular fashion with a historic, career retrospective and musical storytelling concert at Lincoln Center in New York City on January 24th and 25th.

Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J. (Jean-Baptiste Millot Image)

Celebrating his remarkable 80th year of life and musical legacy, the legendary musician will take center stage for a landmark two-night concert series titled “A Living History: Jamaica to Jazz” at theRose Theater at Lincoln Center, Broadway at 60th St., in New York, NY, at 7:30 each evening.

“This will be a journey through the living history of Jamaican and American music and life – from the late ’40s to the present,” said the artist, who fondly refers to himself simply as ‘Monty,’ and often jokes about graduating from the “street corner.”

“It will be living history long before Bob Marley came on the scene… a story of Jamaican music and life, intertwined with American music and culture, told through the lens of one man – someone some now call ‘a living legend,’” added Alexander, an alumnus of Jamaica College, who has witnessed and lived through countless musical and social experiences, including the pre-civil rights era in the United States.

From hearing and then performing Christmas carols on the piano without any formal training to the awe of his mother at age 4, to playing at Studio One by age 14, Alexander’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. After migrating to Miami, Florida with his family, he honed his craft in both white and non-white clubs and hotels, eventually meeting legends like Harry Belafonte and Frank Sinatra. This led to his move to New York City, where he crossed paths with icons such as the great Duke Ellington and Miles Davis. Today, he has established himself as a global jazz phenomenon, performing worldwide across the US, Europe, the Caribbean, Africa, South America, and Asia, with notable appearances in Japan and South Korea.

“I seek modesty and humility, but I find myself now being called a living legend in the fact that many of the great musicians I played with have now passed. I, however, prefer not to think that way but look forward to sharing this 8-decade history with the people. It is a can’t miss event and will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Alexander. 

More than 20 exceptional artists who have shared the stage and studio with Alexander throughout his illustrious career will join this musical celebration that will feature mento, ska, calypso, reggae, jazz, blues, gospel and the American songbook. He will be joined by an internationally acclaimed lineup of musicians, including Quentin Baxter, drums; T.K. Blue, alto saxophone; Jason Brown, drums; James Cammack, bass; Wayne Escoffery, tenor saxophone; Dominick Farinacci, trumpet; Andrae Murchison, trombone; Randy Napoleon, guitar; Steve Nelson, vibraphone; Victor Provost, steel drums; Luke Sellick, bass; Hassan Shakur, bass; Herlin Riley, drums; Robert Thomas Jr., hand drums; Courtney Panton, percussion; Justin Poindexter, guitar; Joshua Thomas, guitar; Jr. Wedderburn, percussion; Karl Wright, drums and percussion.

Deeply rooted in his Jamaican heritage, Alexander infuses the spirit of his homeland into every performance, using his music as a bridge between cultures, uniting audiences from all backgrounds and leaving a lasting legacy of joy and connection. Each performance or vignette on January 24th and 25th will honor the diverse influences that have shaped his distinctive style, reflected in his extensive catalog of over 75 albums.

As he humbly states, quoting Maya Angelou: “‘If you don’t know where you’ve come from, you don’t know where you’re going.’”

Ticket Information

For tickets to Alexander’s can’t miss show, “A Living History – From Jamaica to Jazz,” visit the official event page here or jazz.org/monty 24 hours a day or through CenterCharge at 212-721-6500, open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fans can also buy tickets in person at the box office, located on Broadway at 60th Street, Ground Floor. A $5.00 Jazz at Lincoln Center Facility Fee applies to all ticket purchases, except for $10 Hot Seats. A $7 handling fee also applies when purchasing tickets from CenterCharge or when purchasing tickets online via jazz.org.

Box Office hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. (or 30 minutes past curtain). On Wednesdays, prior to a Rose theater concert, the Box Office will open at 10 a.m.

More On Monty

Stay connected with Alexander’s latest updates by following him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander, on Twitter at  @_MontyAlexander and on Instagram at monty.alexander You can also explore his music on his YouTube channel or his official website, montyalexander.com.