Government Moves Ahead with Cayman Islands Health Foundation to Bolster Public Healthcare

Foundation to support long-term healthcare

Cabinet has approved the establishment and operationalisation of the Cayman Islands Health Foundation under Section 6A of the Health Services Authority Act (2018 Revision). The Foundation was legally created in 2010 to raise and manage funds for healthcare facilities and programmes, and to support the operational needs of the Health Services Authority (HSA), but key steps to make it fully functional had not previously been completed.

“Establishing the Health Foundation reduces pressure on Core Government funding by generating additional resources for the Health Services Authority, while supporting priority services that matter to our community,” said Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, Minister of Health, Environment and Sustainability.

Next steps and governance

With Cabinet’s latest decision, the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability, in partnership with the HSA, will prepare a detailed proposal outlining the Foundation’s governance structure, operating model, timelines, costs and personnel requirements. That proposal will be submitted to Cabinet for review once finalised. Initial actions will include appointing the Foundation’s committee, securing a head office and recruiting staff such as a secretary and a fundraising specialist, supported by start-up funding from Government.

Easing pressure on public finances

The Health Foundation is intended to improve the long-term financial sustainability of Cayman’s public healthcare system. Once operational, it is expected to attract donor funding that will help cover a portion of healthcare costs currently carried by Government, offsetting expenditure on HSA facilities and programmes and helping to contain costs over the long term. The model is designed to create opportunities for community involvement and shared ownership in strengthening public healthcare, while reducing reliance on core Government revenue.

“This model supports more sustainable healthcare by creating opportunities for community involvement and shared ownership in strengthening our public health system,” Minister Ebanks-Wilks added.

Targeted support for priority services

The Foundation will provide a vehicle for targeted fundraising in areas of high need. Priority focus areas are expected to include mental health services for children and adolescents, community wellbeing initiatives and programmes that help align local services with international healthcare standards. By directing external funding to clearly defined priorities, the Government aims to support both service improvements and better long-term planning.

Emphasis on accountability and public confidence

Chief Officer for the Ministry, Tamara Ebanks, said the approach is being developed with an emphasis on accountability, measurable outcomes and strong governance. The Foundation is intended to operate transparently, attracting and managing donor funds in a way that supports sustainable service delivery and long-term cost containment for Government. Officials note that public feedback has helped shape the decision to advance the Foundation, which forms part of wider efforts to strengthen sustainability, accountability and community confidence in the public healthcare system.