Celebrating the 2024 Board of Directors for Friends of the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) Bahamas

The Friends of the Public Hospitals Authority of The Bahamas (FoPHAB) is on a mission to transform healthcare across The Bahamas. With a vision of ensuring every person in The Bahamas has access to a world-class healthcare system, FoPHAB collaborates globally to bolster hospital infrastructure, emergency services, mental health support, and more.

Meet the remarkable volunteers leading this charge:

1. Chairperson: Dr. Philippa Davis Belton is an esteemed anesthesiologist licensed to practice in California, Massachusetts, and Virginia. A recipient of a Lyford Cay Foundation scholarship, Dr. Davis has committed herself to gain experience in trauma and critical care medicine to ultimately improve healthcare in The Bahamas.
2. Secretary: Ms. PJ Douglas Sands, a certified financial educator and brand strategist, combines her financial acumen with her experience in community empowerment. With her expertise, PJ ensures that the FoPHAB’s fundraising efforts align with the impactful causes they champion.
3. Assistant Secretary: Dr. Dominique Foulkes, Medical Director and Pediatrics Chair at Johns Hopkins Medicine, is also known for her dedication to child health education and her leadership within her community. Her commitment brings valuable pediatric healthcare insight to the Board.
4. Treasurer: Ms. Ivylyn Cassar, JP, Chairman of Equity Bank Bahamas Limited, has over three decades of banking experience. Her leadership and knowledge of finance are instrumental in directing the resources necessary for FoPHAB’s impactful initiatives.
5. Assistant Treasurer: Dr. Charlisa Gibson is a pulmonary and critical care attending physician who is also involved in numerous advocacy campaigns for respiratory health. Her clinical experience adds a critical perspective on patient needs to the Board’s initiatives.
6. Fundraising Committee: Mr. Francesco Vanacore, a tax lawyer and investment banker, brings years of experience in finance, which helps guide effective strategies for generating support for FoPHAB’s activities. His background ensures the foundation’s fundraising strategies are both innovative and compliant.
7. Compliance Officer: Dr. Nicole Jones is a pediatric emergency physician and assistant professor who actively champions the safety and quality of healthcare for children. Her expertise ensures that all FoPHAB projects are conducted in accordance with the highest safety standards.

Key Causes They Support:

1. Hospital Infrastructure and Service Enhancement: By supporting construction, renovation, and upgrades of hospital facilities, FoPHAB aims to ensure hospitals are equipped to provide high-quality care. A robust hospital infrastructure is essential for improving patient outcomes and overall community health.
2. Community Health and Accessibility: By focusing on primary healthcare in remote areas, FoPHAB ensures that even those in the most isolated corners of The Bahamas have equitable access to healthcare services, which ultimately promotes a healthier nation.
3. Mental Health and Rehabilitation Services: The foundation is dedicated to creating inclusive mental health services across The Bahamas, supporting the training of healthcare professionals to address a range of mental health and rehabilitation needs. Access to mental health care is a cornerstone of FoPHAB’s holistic health strategy.
4. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Enhancement: FoPHAB enhances EMS by providing advanced vehicles and equipment to ensure every emergency call can be answered effectively. Improved EMS capabilities lead to faster response times, which are critical for saving lives.
5. Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies Management: Ensuring a reliable supply of essential medications, FoPHAB addresses one of the most basic needs of healthcare—making sure that no patient goes without necessary treatment. The availability of supplies directly impacts the standard of care provided across the nation.
6. Health Education and Technology Integration: Through investments in electronic health records and telemedicine, FoPHAB empowers healthcare workers and patients alike. Leveraging technology not only improves the efficiency of care but also broadens the reach of healthcare services across The Bahamas.

4 Ways to Support:

1. Donate Now: Every dollar helps improve hospitals and care facilities.
2. Give Supplies: Contribute medical tools, supplies, or even vehicles for mobile clinics.
3. Sponsor a Drive: Organize fundraisers for any of the six key campaigns.
4. Volunteer: Whether a healthcare professional or a passionate community member, your time and skills are invaluable.

Together, these dedicated professionals are not only making healthcare more accessible but are also nurturing a culture of quality and care throughout The Bahamas. Join FoPHAB in transforming lives—because everyone deserves access to quality healthcare.

Ready to Make a Difference?
Support Friends of PHA Bahamas and become a part of the change. Safe travels on this journey to better health for all!