Government Advances Cayman Islands Health Foundation
Cabinet has approved the establishment and operationalisation of the Cayman Islands Health Foundation, in accordance with the Health Services Authority Act (2018 Revision), Section 6A. The Foundation was legally established in 2010 to raise and manage funds to support healthcare facilities and programmes, and to contribute to the operational funding requirements of the Health Services Authority (HSA). While the legislative framework has existed for several years, key operational steps had not previously been completed.
With Cabinet approval now in place, the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES), in partnership with the Health Services Authority (HSA), will develop a detailed proposal setting out the Foundation’s governance structure, operational model, timelines, costs, and personnel requirements. This proposal will be submitted to Cabinet for review once finalised.
Initial steps will include appointing the Foundation’s committee, identifying a head office, and recruiting dedicated staff, including a secretary and a fundraising specialist. Start-up funding will be required from Government to support these activities.
Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, Minister of Health, Environment and Sustainability, said the Foundation is intended to deliver long-term financial sustainability for the public healthcare system. “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. This model supports more sustainable healthcare by creating
opportunities for community involvement and shared ownership in strengthening our public health system. It is also another example of Government taking practical action to address long-standing issues and deliver lasting solutions,” the Minister said.
Once operational, the Foundation is expected to generate donor-funded support that helps carry a portion of healthcare costs currently borne by Government, offsetting expenditure on HSA facilities and programmes, reducing long-term costs, and strengthening fiscal sustainability. The Foundation will also allow targeted fundraising for priority areas, including mental health services for children and adolescents, community wellbeing initiatives, and initiatives that support alignment with international healthcare standards.
Ms Tamara Ebanks, MHES Chief Officer said the approach is focused on accountability and measurable impact. “The Foundation is being developed to operate with transparency and strong governance. By attracting external funding and directing it to clearly defined needs, it will support sustainable healthcare delivery and long-term cost containment for Government,” Ebanks said.
The Government has stated that public feedback has informed the decision to advance the Foundation. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen sustainability, accountability, and community confidence in the public healthcare system.
