George Town Hospital has been renamed Anthony S. Eden Hospital after the former minster of health who served from 1994-2000 and 2005-2009.
The Health Services Authority made the announcement on Friday, saying that the name change was to recognise the “extraordinary contributions of the Honourable Anthony Samuel Eden, OBE, JP (Ret), whose visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have profoundly transformed the healthcare landscape of the Cayman Islands.”
In a statement, HSA said, “During his tenure he led strategic initiatives and reforms that elevated the quality and accessibility of healthcare services, significantly enhancing the well-being of our nation.”
Healthcare legacy
It listed among Eden’s achievements the completion of the Cayman Islands Hospital in 1999 – which was just renamed George Town Hospital in May last year – along with the expansion of the district health centres to improve healthcare accessibility and the introduction of mandatory health insurance.
It also said he was instrumental in reforming the Health Practitioners’ Bill; introducing the National Strategic Plan for Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation, effectively leading to the creation of Caribbean Haven in Breakers; establishing the National Strategic Health Plan; as well as forging strategic partnerships with international healthcare institutions to enhance tertiary care.
Eden expressed his thanks for the decision to rename the hospital, saying, “It is indeed an honour to have served my country and to have played a role in the establishment and advancement of this vital sector. I am grateful for the recognition bestowed upon me, as it not only reflects the journey we have undertaken but also underscores the spirit of community where we can all play a part in taking care of each other.”
Eden was a founding member of PPM until 2015 when he left the party due to his objections over the legal acceptance of same-sex unions in the Cayman Islands.
After leaving the PPM, Eden continued to serve as an MP for Bodden Town until retiring due to ill health in 2021.
Tributes paid
Premier and Minister of Health Juliana O’Connor-Connolly said, “We honour the legacy and contribution of Mr. Eden whose vision, dedication and sacrifice have been truly transformative. His unwavering commitment has significantly advanced public health in the Cayman Islands, ensuring that all Caymanians have access to quality, modern healthcare.
“The foundation he laid continues to support our progress and to position us as a beacon of advanced healthcare on the global stage. Recognising this stalwart ensures his contribution continues to inspire future generations of Caymanians.”
HSA’s acting board chair Joy Vernon said, “The HSA is proud to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Mr. Eden over his decades of service. His foresight and sense of community paved the way for us to continue offering extraordinary healthcare services at the HSA.
“His principled approach and accountability to the people of the Cayman Islands speak volumes about his commitment to ensuring access to quality care in proximity to family and loved ones.”
Lizzette Yearwood, CEO at the HSA, said, “The naming of the hospital in Mr. Eden’s honour reflects the profound and lasting impact he has made on healthcare in the Cayman Islands, championing access to cutting-edge, advanced care through effective stewardship. We are, indeed, happy that he is here today to witness the celebration of his legacy.
“The team at the HSA remains committed to ensuring we provide high quality, accessible healthcare, and the experiences of our patients continue to embody Mr. Eden’s vision and compassion.”
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