The Government of the Virgin Islands through the Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent Wheatley has extended condolences on the passing of former Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Dr. Carissa Etienne.
Wheatley said Dr. Etienne left an indelible mark in the area of global and regional public health, and that her career is worthy of emulation.
“Dr. Etienne was a public health expert who made a significant impact in the public health landscape regionally and internationally. We here in the VI also benefitted tremendously from her vision, leadership and drive to advance public health in the Americas,” he said.
“We have lost a visionary, pioneer, and stalwart in the area of public health. As we reflect on her significant contributions and her life’s work, we will be forever grateful and appreciative for the commitment, love and respect that she had for her Caribbean counterparts. May her Soul Rest in Peace,” Wheatley added.
According to a press release issued by PAHO, Dr. Etienne who was also a former Assistant Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) died early Friday morning at her home in Maryland USA.
She began her career in her native Dominica as a medical officer at the Princess Margaret Hospital and was later appointed as the Chief Medical Officer of that country. She has also served in other high-level posts in Dominica, including as Director of Primary Health Care Services, Coordinator of the National AIDS Program and Disaster Coordinator for the Ministry of Health.
Following the news of her passing, CARICOM members and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) paid tribute to the Director Emeritus, Dr. Etienne.