BNA: Nurse welfare should be a priority

The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) is calling for greater investment in nurses’ well-being, saying it is critical to the future of healthcare and the economy.

This appeal comes as Barbados joins the rest of the world in observing Nurses Week 2025 under the theme, Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies.

BNA President Dr Fay Parris said the well-being of nurses must be treated as a priority, not just for moral reasons, but because of the impact on patient care and national development.

“The [International Council of Nurses] ICN’s 2025 report highlights the urgent need for safer work environments, mental health support, and policies that protect nurses from burnout and attrition,” she said in a message to mark International Nurses Day, observed on May 12.

“A strong, resilient nursing workforce leads to better healthcare outcomes and stronger economies.”

On Sunday, the association held a church service at the Abundant Life Assembly in St Michael to launch the week of activities, which continues on Wednesday with a seminar on the economic impact of nurses’ well-being and a student awards presentation at Barbados Beach Club.

The week ends Friday with a football match between nurses from the BNA and their Ghanaian counterparts at the Psychiatric Hospital Pasture in Black Rock, starting at 4:30 p.m.

Parris said the BNA will continue to advocate for improved working conditions and support for the country’s nurses.

“Caring for nurses is caring for the future of healthcare and the economic growth of Barbados,” she said.

(SM)