NASSAU, The Bahamas - The Bahamas welcomed the world’s top clinicians, scientists, policy makers and commercial entities as they connect the dots between quality of life and patient access to future health technologies, at the Third Annual HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit.

Assembled at the Atlantis Paradise Island, the stakeholders were greeted by the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minster of Health and Wellness on behalf of Prime Minister the Hon. Philip Davis, who regrettably was attending a prior commitment out of the country.

“It is truly a pleasure to bring greetings to you today from the beautiful Atlantis Resort here on Paradise Island. Our prime minister sends his apologies, warm greetings and congratulations,” said Dr. Darville in his remarks on opening night of Monday, April 17, 2023.

And, he specifically acknowledged Dr. Desiree Cox, Bahamas’ Rhodes Scholar, medical doctor and the Founder and CEO of The HEALinc.

Dr. Darville congratulated the organizers on the theme: “Quality of Life and Access to Longevity and Regenerative Health Technologies, Now!”

He noted that he was not only there in his capacity as Minister of Health and Wellness, but as a physician with a keen interest in stem cell research, biotechnology, longevity and anti-aging.

“This summit is another example of the fact that as a nation with serious health issues we must continue to think outside of the box and embrace new technologies that will help in our fight to improve wellness and ultimately reduce incidence morbidity and mortality,” he said.

Dr. Darville shared that the recent release of his ministry’s STEP Survey 2019 which highlighted the longstanding experiences with non-communicable diseases, presented another opportunity to take stock of the overall health of The Bahamas with just under 400,000 residents.

And, as provisions were made in a new line item in the 2022-2023 National Budget, he was pleased to report that his ministry’s Wellness Unit is currently leading the way in each community, to ensure that young and old alike benefit from policies and programmes that promote lifestyle modifications with focus on nutrition, physical activity and mental wellbeing.

The event also showcased the 2023 HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit Exhibition Hall, and Public Lectures.

The 2023 Summit, from April 17th - 19th, has had an estimated 350 individuals in attendance, and a further 1,000 plus, virtually.

Other topics discussed ranged from the science of healthy longevity, mitigating trauma and stress, and accelerating access to cutting-edge integrative regenerative technologies, in and outside of the US -- to psychedelics for mind-body rejuvenation and cultivating a global future health workforce.

(Dr Darville)
The Bahamas hosted the 2023 HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit at the Atlantis Paradise Island. The Hon. Dr. Michael Darville delivered the opening remarks on Monday, April 17, 2023.

(Exhibition)
Scores of stakeholders attending the 2023 HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit at the Atlantis Paradise Island, toured the exhibition hall on opening night Monday, April 17, 2023.

(Drs Beneby & Darville)
The Bahamas hosted the 2023 HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit at the Atlantis Paradise Island. Pictured are Dr. Glen Beneby, and the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness on opening day Monday, April 17, 2023.

(BIS Photos/Mark Ford)