The Ministry of Health says it is aware of recent allegations concerning the admission and treatment of a U.S. citizen at Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital.
The Ministry says it takes these allegations seriously and has initiated an internal investigation.
“While cautioning against premature conclusions, we are committed to a prompt and thorough review. This will include examining the patient’s admission, treatment, conditions of stay, and discharge, as well as the conduct of all personnel involved. Efforts are already underway to engage all parties concerned,” a media post from the ministry stated.
The Ministry indicates that it remains fully committed to treating all patients – citizens, residents, and visitors alike – with dignity, compassion, and in accordance with established medical, ethical, and legal standards.
“We assure the public, our international partners, and all stakeholders that Antigua and Barbuda’s health sector upholds transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of care,” the post noted.
The Ministry announced the internal investigation after a United States citizen studying medicine in Antigua at the American University of Antigua (AUA) had accused the state-run psychiatric hospital of unlawful detention, mistreatment, and extortion, sparking calls for an investigation.
The patient has levelled a number of serious accusations against Clarevue Hospital. These include;
- Detaining her without medical or legal justification.
- Denying her food and water for extended periods.
- Restricting visits from family members and US consular representatives.
- Falsifying medical records to prolong her detention.
- Demanding $2,000 before allowing her to leave the island, threatening to block her departure if the payment was not made.
The patient, a female, complained that the ordeal caused her to miss an academic deadline at AUA, forcing her withdrawal from the semester.
Among other things she wants her status re-instated at the university.
