Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to begin performing corneal replacement surgeries locally as part of a government-backed initiative aimed at expanding advanced eye care services across the country.

The announcement was made during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, who said Cabinet approved the initiative following a presentation by Health Minister Michael Joseph.

Merchant said the Ministry of Health is in the advanced stages of finalizing a memorandum of understanding with the U.S.-based World I Mission to facilitate the introduction of the surgeries within the coming months.

According to Merchant, five corneal replacement surgeries are expected to be carried out during the initial phase of the programme.

He said the initiative is expected to bring life-changing treatment to patients who would otherwise need to travel overseas for costly medical procedures.

“The proposed collaboration will also provide for the introduction and expansion of other complex eye surgeries and specialised ophthalmological services,” Merchant said during the briefing.

The government said the programme forms part of broader efforts to improve access to modern and specialized healthcare services in Antigua and Barbuda.

Merchant noted that the initiative is designed to improve healthcare outcomes for individuals suffering from serious eye conditions while strengthening local ophthalmological services.

Cabinet reportedly expressed full support for the programme as officials continue efforts to expand specialized medical care available within the country.

The administration has not yet announced a specific start date for the surgeries or identified the first group of patients expected to undergo the procedures.