KPMG has launched a new global centre of excellence for island healthcare to focus on the unique needs of island-based healthcare systems.

Dr Anna van Poucke, Global Head of Healthcare for KPMG International, said “With healthcare systems facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities worldwide, KPMG International recognises the critical need for specialised knowledge and innovative approaches. The establishment of our global center of excellence for island healthcare underscores KPMG's dedication to delivering value in healthcare globally,” says Dr van Poucke.”  

The newly established centre serves as a central hub where KPMG experts can share experience and learnings in the island-based healthcare internationally. It unites dedicated island-based professionals from KPMG Islands Group including those based in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago focusing on identifying and adapting best practices for islands. Additionally, the centre will conduct research to develop tailored approaches for island healthcare and foster networking opportunities among island healthcare stakeholders.

Through this initiative, stakeholders gain access to KPMG’s extensive global healthcare network, which consists of over 5,000 audit, tax, and advisory professionals with healthcare industry expertise in more than 70 member firms worldwide. This network also includes nearly 200 clinicians with hands-on experience in various healthcare roles, such as physicians, nurses, paramedics, social workers and other allied professions.

Dr Edward Fitzgerald, Head of Healthcare and Life Sciences for KPMG Islands Group, said “Delivering accessible, affordable, high-quality care can be particularly challenging for island communities throughout the world, given their geographical locations and smaller scale. This situation magnifies wider health challenges, including rising population health needs, the growing complexity and cost of care, and health workforce pressures.”

The centre will therefore work with governments, regulators, payors, providers, non-government organisations and international development organizations across a wide range of island specific healthcare topics, including:

• Healthcare system strengthening and universal health coverage: Ensuring all community members have access to affordable and high-quality healthcare.
• Operational improvement, efficiency and productivity: Enhancing patient care delivery and optimising resource use for greater effectiveness.
• Integrated care models and pathway design: Developing a more coordinated and seamless patient experience across various healthcare services.
• Human resources for healthcare organisations: Addressing staffing needs to effectively meet community healthcare demands.
• Digital health and data: Leveraging technology to enhance both the convenience and accuracy of patient care.
• Strategy, acquisitions and financing: Ensuring the sustainability of hospitals and health services through strategic planning and financial management.
• Climate health and ESG: Promoting environmentally friendly practices and social responsibility within healthcare systems.
• Leadership, learning and development: Providing training for healthcare leaders to adapt to changes, improve services, and drive ongoing evolution in healthcare quality.

Chris Brome, Head of Advisory, KPMG in Caricom, said “This significant investment in our team reaffirms KPMG's commitment to delivering our knowledge and expertise across the healthcare sector, both globally and locally. Establishing this new international hub not only showcases the outstanding work we're already accomplishing, but also helps ensure that our global insights are effectively coordinated, shared and put into action for the benefit of our island communities.”