Dominica has successfully performed four permanent pacemaker implantations at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital, marking a milestone in local cardiac care.
Dominica: The Dominica Hospitals Authority (DHA) has shared a significant advancement in healthcare for Dominica, announcing that four permanent pacemaker implantations have been successfully performed, marking a historic moment for the country.
The groundbreaking procedures were performed last Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH), led by cardiologist Dr. Rachel Andrew, who received specialized training and knowledge from Georgia-based interventional cardiologist, Dr. Kendall Griffith.
According to the Hospitals Authority, the first procedure lasted for approximately 2 hours, while the remaining three were completed in about an hour and a half each.
Dr. Rachel Andrew, has expressed the importance of having done this procedure on the island, describing it as an "extreme accomplishment." She noted that for many Dominicans, having to travel overseas for medical procedures, even relatively simple ones, presents a significant challenge, adding that the goal has always been to provide the procedure locally rather than sending patients overseas.
"It means a lot to a patient who doesn't have to travel anymore and have their family right next to them to have it done and be at home today," shared the cardiologist.
Meanwhile, interventional Cardiologist Dr. Kendall Griffith, expressed optimism that the procedures would pave the way for the development of cardiovascular services in Dominica
"I just foresee that Dominica, from a cardiovascular standpoint, this is the launching pad. There's so much potential in Dominica to be able to build a cardiovascular programme," stated Dr. Kendall Griffith.
The DHA shared this significant milestone on Facebook, where it has extended its gratitude to the Operating Theatre team, the Radiology team, the Surgical ward team and the Cardiology team for their commitment and collaboration that has made the procedure a success.
"Their collective commitment, and collaboration played an important role in achieving this milestone. This is the beginning. This is history. This is progress. This is ours. Dominica’s healthcare continues to advance, bringing specialized services closer to home, reducing the need for patients to seek certain procedures abroad, and creating new possibilities for the people of Dominica," wrote the Hospitals Authority.